1966 Chevrolet Nova - Skin Deep

The conditioning metal prep is being applied here with a scuff pad, although you can also use a small brush. When using metal prep, be sure to wear gloves to keep your skin from touching the chemical.

In small areas, a chemical paint remover can be applied with a brush. Then the softened paint can be removed with a scraper or putty knife. Several applications are often necessary. Always read all instructions before using any paint stripper.

As part of the prep process, the smaller components were wiped with a 50/50 mix of metal prep and water prior to priming.

Once cleaned, self-etching primer should be applied to provide a base for priming. Self-etching primer uses phosphoric acid to adhere to the parent metal. For small items a spray can works well, and for larger jobs (such as a car or a fender) the primer should be sprayed from a gun. The two containers at the left represent two common components (PCL 195 Pro Etch A & B) necessary to produce a self-etching coating.

After the car has been chemically dipped, it is returned to the bodyshop and its metal is prepped. The metal should not be touched with greasy hands. Keep it clean and get it primed quickly.

After the dipping process, the undercarriage of the Nova needed to be wiped down with metal prep/conditioner to ready the metal for painting. This ensures a clean surface and eliminates any residue left over from the muriatic or caustic soda chemical tanks. Then a coat of phosphorus agent is applied onto the surface to help guard against further rusting.

After the chemical stripping, this Nova is now in primer and ready for paint, with a rust-free body and good bodywork. CHP