Paint Prep

[mikebol]

Hey guys!

I've decided to start my first restoration attempt on my Cub 682 this winter. I've been reading and bookmarking all the tips and tricks on this site but looking for more clarification on removing the existing paint and preparing for the first primer coat.

I don't have a media blaster of any kind ... I was planning to use an orbital sander, wire wheel or hand sanding on the parts to remove existing paint. Should I be completely sanding down to metal or do I just need to etch the existing paint layer and repaint, reclear from there? I'm really looking for tips on surface prep so maximize the finished product.

I'm likely going to have a local paint shop shoot the paint, hardener, clear for me. That way they can bake the parts and insure a good coverage and cure.

I'm going to focus on the chassis and just clean up the motor. It might be a project for next winter depending on how this goes.

Mike

[vartz04]

Any part that is rusted take to bare metal. I took 99%.of my 104 to bare metal.

Use paid to stripper disks and wire wheels for a grinder. If you don't have a grinder get one. I used the $19.99 hard or freight grinder for my entire 104 and it's still working fine.

After you grind wipe with acetone or alcohol and lər it dry then hit it with prime. IIf you have deep rust anywhere use a rust converter before priming.

I've been working my 104 since may. The only spots I have paint issues are parts that see a lot of abrasion like the clutch pedal. I should of had that powder coated.

Good luck have fun and plan on having it down twice as long as you think so you don't feel rushed. I had to use a push mower for a month to get mine done right.

[ACecil]

Welcome to OCC, Mike! Good luck painting your 682! Hope to see some pics, after you're done.

[mikebol]

Thank you both for the replies.

When hand sanding, what grit sandpaper do you recommend? I'm guessing something aggressive but not sure how aggressive. Also, I've heard of guys using Easy Off for paint removal; any truth to that or has anyone else tried it?

Can't wait to get started ... I've been wanting to do this for 3 years now. I've been mowing with this mower since I was 11 ... It's a labor of love.

Mike

[vartz04]

Use a paint stripper. There are many in the paint department. Forget hand sanding. You'll never get through this thick enamel. 60-80 grit would work though. My suggestion is use angle grinder attachments and some smaller brushes that fit in a drill for the tight areas. Good luck and take lots of pics. You can start a thread to track your progress and to get help along the way.

[cc_bob]

First, post some pics so we can see what shape it's in

Get an assortment of sand paper and go to it. Unless you have something really rusty you shouldn't need anything coarser than 80 grit. If you are just feathering out chips and the like start with 180 and go from there.

YouTube has a TON of videos on how to prep for paint as well as body work and spraying, check out VWDarrin and SWRNC both are great channels. From there you can find a ton of other channels about bodywork and painting (most are car related).

I wouldn't have a shop do it unless you have a lot of money or a buddy in the business. Take your time and research how to do the work. Use decent products and more importantly make sure they are compatible.

Good luck and post those pics.