The paint that was going to cost me $1096 is for paint code "Lotus B86" (Lotus Racing Green). I did some investigating, and there are a couple of reasons why it is so expensive. First of all, the paint supplier quoted me for a gallon of each can of paint (Primer, Base, Clear, Reducer x2). As I have found out, I don't need a gallon of paint. One or two quarts should be all I need. Secondly, the paint was a premium type of paint. There are other alternatives that are less expensive. Finally, the paint is only available in Waterborne paint. I am told that this is more expensive than solvent based paint. I am very unfamiliar with waterborne paint, so more research is needed on them.
For now, after I finish sanding, I will start with an 2 part epoxy primer to cover the car:
The above primer was bought at NAPA for $70 for a total of 2 quarts. This will give me a good base for whatever I paint on as a top coat.
After talking with the NAPA guy for a while about each other's car projects, I asked if he could mix me up a sample of the Lotus B86 paint. He made up a couple of ounces, and put it in a can for me, and he didn't charge me
. I used this to paint a piece of paper, so I can compare this color to other (cheaper) colors. Please note that this was brushed on, not sprayed on, so there are really bad streaks in the paint, and bubbles around the outside.
You will notice that one side is shinny, and the other one isn't. The shiny side has a clear coat on it.
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"The decision to build a car is not one reached through a rational mindset. It is a decision that is made because we have to do it! It makes no sense, but neither does love, children and taxes" -Sam Buchanan
My Build Log:
http://www.locostusa.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=35&t=3054