Rookie needs help with almost everything

[Stretch]

I'm a rookie as well trying to pick up what I can. Check out the 'How-To' section (link on top of page). It goes through the entire process step by step.

I've got a Craftsman 5hp compressor with a 30 gal. tank. Not sure if it'll hold up to the DeVilbiss GTI I ordered, but I'll post about it when it gets here. From what I've read, you get what you pay for, but lots of people seem to get good results with the DeVilbiss Finishline II Gun. I think it's a bit over $100. The best prices I've seen are at www.spraygunworld.com. They're service hasn't been the best for me, but the prices seem good.

I'm still trying to pick up all the terms such as 'flashing.' All in time I guess. I've found the search feature to be invaluable. I'm sure the pros on here can chime in with more info.

-Stretch

 

[rex]

Before you sand it wash it with a good grease and wax remover-along with before sealing it.Oh,you should seal the old finish with a primer sealer before basing it too if you're coloring the whole thing.If there's any bodywork you should use a primer surfacer over it,and if you strip it to metal you should etch prime and then epoxy prime it before anything.Sorry everything is in reverse order.From steel it's etch,epoxy,surfacer(for bodywork or sanding out small imperfections),sealer.Then you start painting.

 

[DiegosAnotherR1]

okay, i want to start painting and i only know little about it.
first of all, can anybody tell me what kind of spray gun, and what size compressor will be good enough to paint motorcycle pieces(i dont plan on painting any thing big, such as cars and trucks, etc...). i only plan on painting motorcycle parts for now, nothing big. I will need something at a reasonable afordable price.

next can anybody let me know the steps of painting?

so far i got this:
1. prep the part- sanding it with 400 - 600 grit paper
2. spray base coat- let dry
3. spray clear coat- let dry
4. wet sand with 1000-2000 grit paper
5. use rubbing compound (foam pad)
6. use polishing glaze (waffle pad)
7. use hand glaze (apply by hand)

can anybody let me know if i missed any steps, and how long i should let the base coat dry before i add clear coat, and how long i should let the clear coat dry before i start to wet sand it.

thanks in advance- this site is very informative!