NEED ADVICE: Paint first or Complete Rebuild with Mods?

[JeepGuy]

So I'm finally at the stage where all the parts I took off for a simple floor repair... almost a decade ago... get to go back on. As the project sits right now the entire outside of the bronco is simple spray can primer and the interior is just the stock beat up paint from 1974.

My initial plan was to redo the entire interior (Raptor liner floors, tub wall, New dash and gauges, New Seats, New cage, etc...) while keeping the exterior primed pending any further modifications I decide after getting the Bronco running and as reliable as these can be.

I did the test color paint (Hot Ginger Metallic) and the wife loves the color.... which is pushing the Paint it before rebuilding it idea.

I have not fired the Bronco up, because I completely removed the fuel system and wiring harness. I have a painless ready to go back in, and everything I need to plum the fuel system, but there will be work still need to be completed in the engine compartment. I'm trying to not have to tear things back down again for paint, which is why I initially wanted to complete everything inside before painting the exterior.

Another thought that has crossed my mind. Has anybody has issue with getting a clean paint line up against raptor liner? The only areas it would be an issue (if it is an issue at all) would be the door jams and top of the tail gate.

So what would you do?

Complete all mods, get it running reliable, then paint?

Paint now while it's all still stripped down, then complete all mods and get it running?

 

[mhinchliffe]

I'm doing necessary repairs and mods as I go before paint. I don't feel bad going old paint for welding as I would fresh paint.

 

[trekgurl]

I said I would paint mine after I finished all the repairs, mods and I've made a good dent in my total list as its dependable and fun to drive etc. I've come to the realization I may never paint it as I'm having too much fun with it and making changes and mods is a continual process that never ends. That's what makes it mine (or yours). Paint (and the process) is so expensive I'd screw it up almost immediately as its not in garage and I beat on it like a rented mule sometimes. That money would be better spent in other fun stuff for it..

It all depends on what you want to do with the bronco after your "done" , then you make a plan and go forward. Nothing says you can't change the plan either.

If I was to do paint, I'd do it very last.

 

[TX-ZACH]

The risk of possible ding damage from all the traffic of installing parts alone would put me to paint last. Painting any undercarriage I would do in a heart beat.

 

[fordguy]

I would say skip the Raptor and use epoxy paint. I have said it before, mine had Berliner in it when I got it and I removed it. Would never go back with it. Make a plan and stick with it.

 

[BGBronco]

Another thought that has crossed my mind. Has anybody has issue with getting a clean paint line up against raptor liner? The only areas it would be an issue (if it is an issue at all) would be the door jams and top of the tail gate.

If your going for a decent build, I would paint first. Even though the lines would probably only be visible inside the doors, that would bother me personally. As someone mentioned in a previous post, everyone seems to be going the epoxy route, at least on the high end builds that I've seen.

 

[stupidboy]

I would paint it last.

 

[JeepGuy]

Looks like paint it last is going to be the route I take. Not building a show piece, but I'm also not building a beat down trail rig. Plan is to use the color matched touch up paint for all the jams prior to lining, get it dialed in and running, then paint last. The wife will just have to be patient... which is all part of the master plan. Impatient wife pushes the build to conclusion a little faster.

 

[chrlsful]

last (if ever, I'm never done w/changes, up grades). & besides it gets trashed on narrow east coast trails. Several months B4 selling it I guess might B my answ...

 

[Rustytruck]

I would paint it as a good motivator to get the truck finished. paint doesnt go bad just sitting waiting for you to finish. its the most expensive single job you will do. if your paying someone to paint then you have to people working at the same time. one guy driveline and one guy working on paint. its your choice keep the wife happy or create an enemy? I vote keep the wife happy maybe she will help you get it done. either way its going to beat the hell out of your wallet.

 

[Madgyver]

Just build what you can get to....... 1st

 

[Me2carcrazy1]

If it has been a decade since the floor came out, I am assuming you haven't been driving it. I would get it running, put in two good comfortable seats and enjoy driving it while you mod it. It has been noted by others that Broncos are never "done", and ones that are mod are always being modified/upgraded. As long as all the rust issues are resolved I would paint later when the budget has recuperated from all the mod expenses. Getting a quality paint job is going to be expensive.

 

[chrlsful]

safety is 1st, reliability 2nd, cosmetics last in my book.

 

[Teal68]

Here's the way I like to do it and why:
1. Do not paint first
2. Completely build the Bronco the way you want it with all accessories
3. Drive it for 3 to 6 months to make sure it is the way you want it.
4. Prep for paint by making note of all holes to be welded up.
5. Strip Bronco down for paint. Takes 2 days at most by yourself
6. Metal work including filling noted holes, body work, paint, liner
7. Reassemble

The process above avoids drilling any holes in fresh paint in the wrong places, and makes sure unnecessary holes are filled.

Anyhow, that's my preferred m.o.

Keep us posted,
Tyler

 

[chrlsful]

thnx Tyler, well written, detailed my above.
If done as Tyler's I would say "Nota 1960 TV star."
(that squishy fishie?)

aahahahaa