block sanding question

[tony]

I started block sanding the hotrod. I have the durablock kit and a set of foam style blocks too for curves. I'm sanding with 80 grit per some other posts I've seen and plan on slicksand on top of that.


My questions:

1 Whats the best sanding technique for the really tight areas on the inside of the doors and trunk? Would handsanding there with a scotch pad be a no-no or is that ok.

2. After I spray the slicksand, do I worry about block sanding the underside trunks, hood, doors too or just rough it up for paint?


thanks,
tony

[peterh226]

I’m sure some of the paint wizards will reply with some guidance. The purpose of block sanding is to get a smooth surface for painting. This smooth surface will reflect light so that the paint highlights and reflects the surroundings. So how special you want the door jambs and backside of things to look is up to you. The block smooths over a longer areas so a straight line reflected in the paint looks straight and not wavy. Two surface could have a mirror finish, one reflects in a pleasing way, the other like a fun house.
Lots of fun and choices.

[FF33rod]

I started taking some notes from the advice Jeff & Jeff give builders occasionally. My notes suggest 150 or 180 before the slicksand. So initial filling, shaping and block with 80 grit followed by pinhole fixing and smaller low spot fill blocked with 150/180, then the slick sand.
Steve

[AJT '33]

Might I suggest that you take a peak at my blog, I tried to log all the work I did from bare glass to final paint, look around post #233 forward, look for posts with pictures of the sanding spraying etc... Hope this will provide you an overall insight better than typing it all up in a summary. I spent a good portion of 5 months prepping and fairing and aligning before getting to a point to do a final primer and paint. As my car is black, its the hardest color to get right so you don't see any waves and get a smooth finish for what i wanted. All I can say its worth the work, good luck!

[tony]

thanks for the responses fellas.

AJT, I actually believe I've gone through your build. Lots of good stuff.

[Arrowhead]

There's no rule saing you must coat EVERYTHING with slick sand. It's a high build poly primer that you use to level small imperfections. If a surface is smooth and is in good shape, there's really no benefit of making more work for yourself by adding a layer(s) of primer. Ultimately you will want those surfaces primed for a proper base for color, but no need for excessive build up either.