paint prep ?

[SR]

my paintspray mate has told me to get a DA sander for the prep work, but will a random orbital sander do the same job, cos theyre cheaper and quieter than an air driven set up ,cheers steve

[bigginger]

I thought DA and random orbit both did the same thing? DA (dual action) just means it 1) rotates and 2) oscillates as it does so, I think.

[jonathon]

Correct Andrew, sorry but I dont have any wooden shoes as a prize though. I would only use the DA for removing paint and cleaning up, I still favour the good ol flatting block for any shaping and final prep, as its easier to control. Try and buy a long block aswell as the standard size one as it helps to keep any filling or blending, flat. When shaping use the block in straight lines crossing each other, when flatting the primer and guide coat always use circular movements even in tight corners or up against parts line the door mouldings. Do not follow the path of mouldings in a parallel fashion .. When you have flattened a curved section always go back over it without the block, just the paper to remove any stepping.
Feel free to ask if you need more info.

[SR]

cheers boys,thought the same as andrew but wanted to check before handing over the hard earned, im preping the car for painting soon,under the eye of my bodyshop mate,but any info from u jonathon is most welcome,seen pics of your work on your website,steve