How to Paint a '66 Mustang

The Ford Mustang is a popular performance vehicle that has been mass produced in the United States since 1964. Car enthusiasts still aggressively seek the earlier versions, and the 1966 GT and Shelby models are among the most popular of the Mustangs. Collectors tend to purchase 1966 Mustangs in a poor state of repair. After restoration, repainting is essential -- and to achieve authenticity, owners should use original color themes.

Instructions

1

Check the vehicle data plate and record the color code, which is identified as a single capital letter or number. Pass the color code on to an automotive paint supplier, and purchase enough material to paint the required number of panels. Use approximately 300 mL of unmixed paint for each panel. Always buy two-pack acrylic paint, as this is a highly durable modern material that matches the original enamel products used in 1966.

2

Prepare and mask the vehicle before positioning it in a well-lit, ventilated area. Wipe down the body panels of the Mustang with degreaser and dry with a clean cloth. Rub the surface of each panel lightly with a tack cloth to remove any remaining particles of dust.

3

Stir the paint thoroughly and pour the required quantity into a mixing cup. Activate the paint at a ratio of two parts color to one part hardener, using a scaled mixing stick to ensure measurements are accurate. Add an additional 10 percent of reducer to promote good paint flow, and mix together thoroughly before transferring to a spray gun. Remember to use a paint strainer during the pouring process to remove any contaminants.

4

Plug the spray gun into an airline powered by a compressed air source. Starting at the highest position, hold the spray gun approximately 6 inches from the surface of the panel and begin painting by moving the arm in a horizontal direction and squeezing the trigger. Work back in the opposite direction, coming down the panel, and make sure each application of color crosses over the previous one to avoid dry edges. Continue until each panel has received a medium-volume coat of color, and let panels cure for 10 minutes. Be careful if you are painting the hood; the grill area on a Mustang is highly curved, and the paint can easily run.

5

Apply a full second coat, beginning at the same starting position as with the first coat. Maintain a consistent spraying distance, and keep the arm moving constantly to avoid the risk of runs and sags. Continue until all panels have received a full second application. Let panels cure for 10 minutes before applying a third and final full coat in the same manner. Wash out the spray gun, and let the paint dry overnight.