I am in the process (a slow one) of stripping and rebuilding the cab I will be putting on my '75. I don't have any real body/painting experience so I have some questions and issues. I am wanting to sand down the cab myself and then primer it. However, I'm worried about not doing a good enough job to be satisfied with later. I have heard there are many things to worry about and consider to prepare the cab for paint. I also will be looking for a bed (stepside or SWB) and will need to do the same prepping and painting on it when I find one.

These are my issues:

- I don't have a paint booth or proper ventilation
- I don't have a paint sprayer
- I don't have the experience with body work and sanding (I do have a dual-action sander and a 30 gal compressor)

My questions are:

- Since I'm not in a big hurry on this project (lack of $$$), should I try and do this job by myself or would I be better off having a professional do it?
- If I do it myself, should I consider building a small paint booth in my garage (plastic sheeting and vent fans/filters). If I do this, what all is needed?
- If I do have a professional do it, how much should I expect to pay to have the bodywork and priming done on the cab and two front fenders (all stripped and removed from truck)?

I just have to consider the costs here and whether I'll be satisfied with the work down the road.

Thanks for any suggestions!!!!

depends on the condition of the cab and how much money, time and effort you're willing to put towards doing it yourself... basic body prep is not difficult, but it can be very time-consuming to do it right and to be satisfied with it.

Does the cab just need sanding or are there dents and rust to be fixed? You might consider taking an ROP body and paint class on the wknd or wknites if one is available in your area... they're free and are a great way to learn as you go...

Thanks Vinnie. The cab is in really good condition. There's just light surface. As far as it being time consuming, I'm not afraid of that because I'm saving the money as I go to buy the new interior components.