How to Repaint Two Stage BC/CC on a Mustang

The Ford Mustang is a factory-produced vehicle that has earned classic status among auto enthusiasts across the world. After prototypes were created in the early 1960s, the first coupe model was released in 1964 and the Mustang underwent a series of cosmetic changes until production ceased in 1973. Since then, collectors have been lovingly restoring the Mustang in large numbers. Recent years have seen production starting again, but older models are still highly sought. For those involved in older Mustang DIY paint projects, there are a number of considerations that have to be applied to base color and clear coat materials.

Instructions

1

Spot-prime repairs on the Mustang with a high-build two pack primer. Activate the material at a ratio of 4 parts primer to 1 part hardener and spray three full coats over the repaired areas only. Avoid priming over areas of undamaged paint to maintain as much originality of the Mustang as possible. Leave the primer to air dry overnight before rubbing down.

2

Clean the vehicle thoroughly with a solvent-based degreaser soaked onto lint-free cloth. Mask the vehicle with tape and paper and use continuous polythene sheeting to cover the rest of the vehicle if you are painting only one or two panels. Wipe the Mustang clean with a tack cloth before base color application begins.

3

Mix a quantity of transparent paint sealer at a ratio of approximately 3:1 with a compatible hardener and add 25 percent of compatible thinners. Apply two full coats of the sealer over the entire surface of each repaired panel. Old Mustangs were originally painted with cellulose-based products, and covering them over with a solvent-based color can cause a chemical reaction that ruins the paintwork. Transparent paint sealer is relatively inert and creates a barrier between the old paint and the new base color.

4

Leave the sealer to cure for 10 minutes and mix the base color while you are waiting. The color code for Mustangs can be found on a white sticker in the door aperture underneath the word "body." Mix solvent-based colors at a ratio of 2:1 with a compatible thinner. Apply two full coats of base color over each repaired panel, leaving each coat to cure for 10 minutes. Once the second coat has cured, apply a light drop coat from a distance of 8 to 10 inches to ensure uniform color coverage.

5

Let the drop coat dry for 5 minutes before applying two full coats of clear coat mixed at a ratio of 2:1:0.1 with compatible hardener and thinners. The clear coat will provide a resilient protective shell over the applied base color and leave a lasting shine that is resistant to UV light and moisture. Leave the clear coat to dry overnight before unmasking the Mustang and returning it to service.