if you search for "auto paint" on ebay you are going to find one of this guys ads... they are apprently selling auto paint for $35 a gallon. has anyone ever used this product? if so, how did this paint work? What gun and gun settings were used... thanks in advance for any replies!
Being a body shop consultant for a major auto manufacturer I can only say that if someone is selling auto paint for $35/gallon, run away as fast as you can.
Good quality paint is going to cost you towards $400/gallon and if applied correctly will be worth every penny.
To answer the question - "what's wrong with $35/gallon paint?" There is a reason that it is $35/gallon. There are federal regulations regarding automotive paints - the VOC content, paint application (where, how ventilated, etc.) to name a few as well as state regulations (especially in CA).
Talk to any good professional painter and they will tell you that "coverage" - solids content is very important. $35/gallon paint will not give you that.
My recommendation is that you find a reputable paint distributer in your area - PPG, BASF, Sherwin-Williams, DuPont who will provide the support you will need and purchase your paint from them.
Just my opinion - I have only been doing this for 18 years.
Toms right about the paint. You get what you pay for now days.I have sold auto paint and related parts for the last 15 years and seen it all. All your name brands have a lesser expensive line that they carry just so you can stay with the product line. By the way, 90 percent of your paint job is the prep work you put in it. Be very meticulous in your prep and use the proper products. The most expensive paint you can buy will look like crap if the prep work isn't right! feel free to ask us questions and we can help you and guide you through it. remember....there's a right way and a 1/2 a** way, let us help you with the right way.
I just picked up a gal of ppg color and a gal of clear(and related reducers and hardeners). Cost: $705 (red- the most expensive color of course). Don't let anybody talk you into buying it by the qt. 3 qts cost you the same as 1 gal. Gonna take a whole gal to paint a firebird. Jams and all. 2 coats.