Underbody prep on 63 SWC

[Rainer S.]

I starting to get ready to work on my body (off). I cleaned alll old paint etc. off the bottom of the car, which as per Restoration guide, should be left natural.
What material should I spray on ? The product Gel-coat is mentioned most often, but some people do not recomend it. What is Gel-coat ? or is there a better product available today, which would be better to use. I plan to show the car upon completion, then drive it.
Also, what base coat is used on the outside body surfaces ? I removed the paint, using chemical paint remover, which I neutralized as recomended.
I have lots of old body work to go over. The car has damage (repaired) around the wheel well lips, front and back.
I am planning to paint the car with urathane paint, not lacquer.

Rainer

[Wayne W.]

Re: Underbody prep on 63 SWC

You dont want to spray anything on the underside except where the factory blackout was applied. You might want to spray a little highly thinned clear over the underside, if it is dull, but dont over do it. Gel-coat is used only on the outside surfaces.

[Chuck S.]

Re: Underbody prep on 63 SWC

Rainer, I posted a request for help on PPG urethane paint systems, and I got some really good feedback.

You can search the archives for the full comments, but I concluded the consensus was for DP74LF epoxy primer on bare fiberglass (DP74LF is red, but it comes in several formulas/colors), followed by K36 Prima urethane primer-surfacer, followed by reduced DP50LF (gray, or use color of your choice) as a sealer, followed by DCC Concept acrylic urethane single-stage color. The DCC can be clear-coated with DCU2021 if desired (probably not a good idea for judging), or clear can be mixed in the final coat, but clear is not required with the DCC.

These premium PPG products are not cheap...figure close to $1000 just for the paint, catalysts, reducer, and wipe-down solvent before you even start buying sandpaper, white wipe rags, tack cloths, etc.

If you are going to use urethane, be sure and attend one of the NCRS paint seminars at the next opportunity. Keep an eye on the regional meet agendas or make the next national. They have been presented at the national conventions for the last several years.

[Rainer S.]

Re: Underbody prep on 63 SWC

Thanks, Wayne and Chuck, for the info. I will search the archives...

Rainer