73 tub off to the media blaster...

Hi guys,

I'm about to send my stripped '73 tub off to the media blaster. My question is what do I paint (protect) it with when I get it back? Here's what I think my option are:

1. I will need to replace some panels (rear corners). Should I shoot the tub with weld-through-primer? I'm concerned with the weld-through-primer that it will absorb water and eventually start to re-rust. True? The tub will be out of the Ohio weather in my garage but at the rate I'm going, I won't get to work on the tub until winter.

2. Use epoxy primer? When I start separating and welding in patch panels will the epoxy primer pose a problem welding? I've got a TIG and realize through some experience that my work has to be squeaky clean in order to get a good TIG weld.

So, should I go with a weld-through-primer or epoxy primer?

Thanks,

 

Well... I'm probably doing it in reverse, but it made more sence to me to repair the panels first and have it blasted after. that way it can be shot in primer immediately after returning.

 

:iagree: That's my plan, anyway. My tub doesn't need a whole lot of work, but what it needs will be done BEFORE blasting, not after. My intention is to get it primered and protected just as quickly after blasting as I possibly can. I'm also going to coat every seam, nook and cranny with Ospho to kill any rust I miss, and prevent new rust from forming.

Blasting it first and then starting the bodywork sounds like a recipe for disaster to me. You'll be getting the bare metal all greasy and grimy no matter what precautions you take, plus sweating all over it, water from wet-sanding, etc.

Do it however you want, but IMO the steel shouldn't be blasted naked until you've got the paint gun ready to primer it ASAP.