What is the method for automotive spray painting?

[DelMaggie]

The method for automotive spray painting is as follows: 1. Cleaning, identification, evaluation, and masking: After thoroughly cleaning the vehicle, identify the type of the old coating and determine the repair process; 2. Masking and degreasing: Protect the surrounding areas of the damaged part with masking paper and degrease the area to be sanded; 3. Removing old paint: Use sandpaper and a sander of appropriate specifications to completely remove the old paint from the damaged area; 4. Applying putty: Apply an appropriate amount of putty and dry it using an infrared lamp; 5. Sanding putty and old coating: Use a sander or manual sanding block with suitable sandpaper to smooth the putty; 6. Degreasing and masking: Wipe the area around the putty clean with a degreaser; 7. Applying primer: Spray the prepared intermediate primer and dry it; 8. Sanding the intermediate primer: Apply an indicator layer, use sandpaper and a sander of appropriate specifications to smooth the intermediate primer, then clean the surface with water and dry it.

[SanMia]

I frequently handle car painting, and the method is quite systematic. The first step is surface preparation: clean the car body to remove dust and dirt, then sand it down to eliminate old paint and rust, ensuring a smooth surface. Next comes masking—using tape and plastic sheets to cover areas like windows and light covers that don't need painting. When applying the primer, it's essential to spray evenly, as it helps the topcoat adhere better. The topcoat requires two to three coats, with the spray gun held about 20 cm from the car body, moving slowly and steadily to avoid buildup. After that, the clear coat is applied to protect the color and add gloss. Finally, polishing is done using a machine to gently smooth the surface. The entire process should be carried out in a well-ventilated area while wearing a mask and gloves to prevent chemical exposure. The finished car looks brand new, but the process is time-consuming, requiring patience as each layer dries.

[DelJames]

I've sprayed car paint at home a few times and found the process quite interesting. Gather your tools: spray gun, compressor, primer, and topcoat. Start with a thorough car wash, let it dry, then sand and remove rust. Masking is a skilled task—cover wheel arches and windows carefully to avoid overspray. Apply a thin layer of primer, wait for it to dry completely before spraying the topcoat. I was clumsy at first, spraying too fast caused runs, but improved after learning to control the spray gun speed and distance. Overall, it's quite cost-effective—materials cost just a few hundred yuan for professional-grade work, but tool investment is significant. Don't rush to drive after painting; wait a day or two for drying before removing the masking. DIY is fun, but avoid spraying on windy days—it'll be a mess.

[DiGeorge]

The painting method affects your wallet's depth. DIY is cost-effective, with materials costing a few hundred yuan; professional shops are more expensive but offer better results. The process includes simple cleaning, sanding, and spraying. When doing it yourself, pay attention to the weather and tool rental fees. Related maintenance, such as regular waxing after painting, can extend the color's lifespan. From an economic perspective, beginners can try painting small areas first before deciding whether to go all out. Don't skip the primer to save time, as subsequent issues will cost more.