I don't know if this is in the right area, so if it isn't please move and/or advise!

My son and I are planning on sanding down a really crappy paintjob on our '95 Camaro. We thought we'd do some of the prep work to cut down on the cost ($4,000). The previous owner just painted over the factory paint, it looks like hell and is peeling badly so it has to go.

I've never done this before so any help with what tools to buy, sandpaper to use, and general answers to dumb questions would be appreciated!

 

I just watched a guy at work do his Grand National. He just sanded until he got it smooth. He had to use bondo a lot to get it smooth. Since his car is black it needs to be a lot better than other colors. I would find the place you want to paint it tell you how they recommend it be done. The money you save will be from removing the parts to do it right. I removed the fenders, bumpers and hood on mine after some front end damage. You can mask it all off or go as far as fulling the windshield and back glass and remove the trim. If not you will get flaking and bad edges and eventually chip and look like a real cheap paint job. The guy at work quoted me $1000 to paint mine complete but I had to remove anything I wanted. The paint is about $300 and thats for a real nice high quality brand. $4000 should get you a professional job with every inch repaired and the car stripped to the point that it is like a factory paint job. My cousin had his done years ago and paid $3500 and it was not done right and he got ripped off. Problem is a V6 Camaro 95 is only worth so much (1500-4000) and my 94 Z28 cost $6000 4 years ago with a new paint job.

 

Not sure that this post even belongs here.... its not really "F-Body" tech. Why not just buy a good book on painting and preparation? Or find a site devoted to bodywork and painting. Just keep in mind that many of the panels are composite/plastic, not metal, and may require special care.

Not trying to put you off, but to expect anyone here to spend the large amount of time and typing to give you thorough instructions on how to prep that car is not realistic IMHO.

 

My thoughts also. You can go to any auto parts and usually fine a book on prep. and paint. Most of the car mags. have had articles on prep. and paint also, some very resently. Do a search for Hot Rod, Car Craft, Chevy Performance, etc.