SQUARE BODY PAINT SWATCHES | OG C10 Color Codes Available from BASF

OG C10 Color Codes Available from BASF

WITH ’73-’87 GM TRUCKS SPROUTING UP WITH A VENGEANCE, THE DEMAND FOR RESTORATION PIECES AND PARTS FOR THEM HAS ALSO SPIKED. As always, the aftermarket industry comes to the rescue when it comes to resto and straight up custom projects. When it comes to paint, however, those wanting to stick with a stock color (or as close to one as possible) have usually put their trust in their painter to recreate the original factory hues as best as they can. Some mixes and tints do come close, while others come in a shade or two o . That’s usually good enough for some but not for all— especially for the demanding purists in the crowd.

There are always whispers about still being able to get the EXACT same paint for old GM trucks— you’ve probably heard them. But the vital detail that gets left out 99 percent of the time is where to fi nd this elusive paint. Well, the fact of the matter is that these original colors are readily available through BASF. Ochre, Burnt Orange, Yellow Gold, Light Saddle—these are just a few factory hues that can be ordered for your current or upcoming truck project.

Through BASF direct distributors, C10 builders can access all original General Motors pickup paint codes for square body trucks. The R-M (Rinshed-Mason) brand of paint products has been a supplier to the automotive industry for 100 years now and continues to deliver high quality, original paint through BASF’s network of distributors.

So, for those looking to lock down real deal original paint for ’73-’87 GM truck builds, look no further. Don’t waste time and money in an attempt to recreate these colors and get the official stuff that was sprayed back when your truck rolled off the assembly line. Contact a local BASF distributor, and tap into the deep well of paint to serve as the perfect finishing detail for your project.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What are some potential pitfalls of opting for a cheaper, possibly lower-quality paint job from someone who might not be a professional?

Potential Pitfalls of Choosing a Cheaper, Lower-Quality Paint Job

Opting for a budget-friendly paint job can be tempting, but it comes with several potential risks that you should be aware of.

Inferior Materials

A lower price often means cheaper materials. This includes lower-quality paint that may fade faster, chip more easily, and lack the durability you expect.

Poor Workmanship

Less experienced or unprofessional painters might not have the skills needed to deliver a smooth finish. Expect wavy bodywork, surface imperfections, and uneven color.

Inadequate Preparation

Proper preparation is crucial for a quality paint job. Cutting corners here can lead to issues like flaking or peeling paint. Professional painters take the time to sand, prime, and apply multiple coats, steps that are often skipped by cheaper alternatives.

Hidden Costs

While the initial price may be low, you might end up spending more in the long run to fix problems that arise. You could find yourself paying for additional repairs or even a complete repaint sooner than you would with a high-quality job.

Limited Warranty

Professional shops usually offer some form of warranty or guarantee, giving you peace of mind. Cheaper options might not include this, leaving you out of luck if the job doesn’t hold up.

Safety Concerns

Paints and varnishes can contain harmful chemicals. Professionals use safety equipment and work in well-ventilated areas to minimize exposure. DIY or low-cost alternatives might lack these precautions, potentially posing a health risk.

Conclusion

While saving money upfront is appealing, the potential pitfalls of a low-cost paint job—from inferior materials to poor workmanship—can end up costing you more in the long run. Investing in a professional service ensures a durable, high-quality finish that will keep your vehicle looking great for years.

Are there significant variations in the cost and quality of paint jobs between different shops?

Absolutely, there are considerable differences in both the cost and quality of automotive paint jobs depending on the shop you choose. Here’s what you need to know:

Price Ranges and Quality Levels

1. Budget Options: Lower-priced paint jobs can range from $500 to $3,000. These often use cheaper materials and less thorough preparation work. While this may be satisfactory for older vehicles or temporary solutions, the results may not last as long.
2. Mid-Range Choices: Shops offering mid-tier services typically charge between $3,000 and $7,000. These jobs usually include better paint quality and more comprehensive prep work, such as addressing minor dents and rust spots. This level is ideal for daily drivers seeking a lasting finish without breaking the bank.
3. High-End Services: Premium paint jobs start at around $7,000 and can go up to $20,000 or more. These shops use top-quality paints and focus extensively on preparation and detail, fixing even the smallest imperfections. They might also offer custom options and finishes.

Factors Influencing Cost and Quality

• Materials: Higher-quality paints and clear coats are more expensive but offer better durability and finish.
• Labor: Skilled labor comes at a premium but ensures meticulous work, especially with surface preparation and application.
• Reputation: Established shops with a track record for quality often charge more but provide peace of mind with their expertise.
• Scope of Work: Comprehensive jobs, including rust repair, dent fixing, and custom finishes, significantly influence both cost and quality.

How to Choose the Right Shop

• Research and Reviews: Look up reviews and ratings online to get a sense of the shop’s reputation.
• Portfolio: Request to see a portfolio of previous work to gauge their quality.
• Estimates: Get multiple estimates to compare the scope of services offered at different price points.
• Warranty: Inquire about any warranty or guarantee to ensure the longevity of the paint job.

Conclusion

The old adage “you get what you pay for” rings especially true with automotive paint jobs. Cheaper options might save you money upfront, but investing in a reputable shop with skilled technicians and high-quality materials can provide a finish that lasts and keeps your vehicle looking its best.

Is it likely that a full paint job costing around $2,000 will look good?

Is a $2,000 Full Paint Job Likely to Look Good?

When considering a full vehicle paint job for around $2,000, it’s important to set realistic expectations regarding the quality you might receive.

Quality of Work

• Professional Shops: Reputable auto body shops often charge significantly more for a full paint job. The cost covers not just the paint but the preparation, labor, and materials needed to ensure a high-quality finish. It’s unlikely that a well-regarded shop would undertake such a task for only $2,000.
• Experience and Skill: A paint job is as much about the craftsman’s skill as it is about the paint itself. Low-cost services may not offer the level of expertise required to deliver a flawless finish. Experienced professionals are typically booked well above budget rates.

Material Costs

• Paint Quality: Premium automotive paints, primers, and clear coats are expensive. A $2,000 budget may force the use of lower-quality products, which can affect the longevity and appearance of the paint job.
• Additional Materials: Properly painting a vehicle involves various additional materials like masking tape, sanding discs, and body fillers. Cutting corners here can lead to imperfections.

Preparation Work

• Surface Preparation: High-quality paint jobs require thorough surface preparation. This can involve fixing dents, sanding down old paint, and treating rust. In budget services, these steps might be rushed or skipped entirely, leading to a subpar finish.
• Attention to Detail: Paint should be applied in a controlled environment to avoid contaminants like dust and debris. Low-cost options may lack such controlled settings, resulting in a rougher texture and visible imperfections.

Longevity and Finish

• Durability: A cheaper paint job may not last as long. Exposure to elements, sun, and weather can quickly degrade inferior paint, making the job look worn out faster.
• Overall Appearance: While the vehicle might look fine initially, closer inspection by knowledgeable individuals will likely reveal flaws like uneven surfaces, inconsistent color, or impurities in the paint.

In Summary

A $2,000 budget for a full paint job on your vehicle typically won’t get you a high-end finish. While you might find someone willing to do the work for that price, be prepared for potential compromises in quality, durability, and overall appearance. If quality is a priority, it might be worth saving up for a more expensive, professional job.

How does the extent of rust and dents on a vehicle affect the cost and quality of a paint job?

How the Extent of Rust and Dents Impacts Paint Job Cost and Quality

The cost and quality of a vehicle paint job are greatly influenced by the extent of rust and dents present. Here’s how these factors come into play:

Factors Affecting Cost

1. Extent of Dents:
   • Minor dents can be repaired relatively quickly and inexpensively.
   • Major dents or multiple dents may require more labor and materials, increasing the cost significantly.
2. Severity of Rust:
   • Surface rust can often be sanded down and treated with rust inhibitors, which is a straightforward process.
   • Deeper rust damage may necessitate cutting out and replacing sections of metal, which is more labor-intensive and costly.

Quality Considerations

1. Preparation Work:
   • Quality paint jobs start with meticulous preparation. If a vehicle has significant dents and rust, more time must be spent on these preparatory steps.
   • Skimping on preparation can result in a subpar finish that may not last long.
2. Skill of the Technician:
   • Experienced technicians can restore badly rusted and dented vehicles to a high standard, but this comes at a higher cost.
   • Less experienced or lower-cost providers may not achieve a perfect finish, especially on heavily damaged vehicles.

Getting Estimates

To get an accurate idea of the cost:

1. Visit Multiple Shops:
   • Obtain estimates from several reputable auto body shops.
   • Compare not just pricing but also the scope of work each proposes to ensure you’re comparing apples to apples.
2. Inquire About Previous Work:
   • Ask each shop to see examples of similar work they’ve done.
   • This can help you gauge the quality you can expect relative to the quoted price.

Conclusion

The extent of rust and dents on your vehicle will significantly affect both the cost and the final quality of the paint job. Proper preparation and skilled technicians are essential for a high-quality finish, and these come at a price. Therefore, it’s wise to consult multiple shops and thoroughly check their past work before making a decision.

What is the average cost of a new paint job and fixing imperfections on a vehicle?

Average Cost of a New Paint Job and Fixing Imperfections on a Vehicle

When it comes to getting a new paint job and addressing imperfections on your vehicle, costs can vary widely based on several factors.

Cost Breakdown

1. Complete Paint Jobs:
   • Basic Paint Job: For a single color paint job without dents or serious bodywork, you’ll be looking at around $2,000 to $4,000.
   • High-Quality Paint Job: For those wanting a premium finish, which includes multiple layers of paint and thorough prep work, prices can exceed $4,000, often reaching upwards of $7,000.
2. Fixing Imperfections:
   • Minor Imperfections: Simple fixes like small dents and scratches can cost between $200 to $1,000, depending on the severity and the number of imperfections.
   • Significant Repairs: For more extensive bodywork, such as replacing cab corners and repairing larger dents, you might be looking at around $1,400 to $2,500.

Factors Influencing Cost

• Extent of Damage: More dents and imperfections mean more labor, which increases the overall cost.
• Paint Quality: Higher quality paint and finishes can significantly add to the price.
• Labor Rates: Costs can differ depending on the region and the specific shop’s labor rates.
• Additional Materials: Primer, clear coat, and other materials will add to your expenses.

Regional Variations

The cost can fluctuate significantly based on your location. Urban areas with a higher cost of living tend to charge more for both labor and materials.

Conclusion

In summary, the average cost for a complete paint job can range from $2,000 to $7,000, depending on the quality and extent of work. Fixing imperfections like dents and scratches can add several hundred to a few thousand dollars more. Always get multiple quotes and check reviews before committing to a particular shop.

What is the approximate cost of a single color all-over paint job in some areas?

The cost of a single color all-over paint job can vary significantly based on location and the quality of the service. In some areas, you can expect to pay around $4,000 for a basic paint job. This price typically excludes the cost of materials, which can add to the overall expense. It’s important to note that some places may charge even more depending on their reputation and the quality of work they offer.

Does the cost of a paint job vary based on the color of the vehicle?

Yes, the cost of a paint job can indeed vary depending on the color of the vehicle. Several factors contribute to this price difference, and understanding them can help you better plan your budget.

Factors Affecting Paint Job Costs

1. Type of Paint: Special finishes, like metallic or pearlescent, are more expensive than standard colors. High-quality paint brands, such as PPG or Sherwin-Williams, also tend to cost more.
2. Color Matching: Darker colors, particularly black, can be more challenging and therefore more costly to match. Achieving a seamless blend with existing paint often requires additional skill and labor.
3. Surface Preparation: If your vehicle has dents, scratches, or rust, those imperfections need to be fixed before a new layer of paint is applied. This prep work can significantly add to the overall cost, particularly with colors that reveal imperfections easily.
4. Labor Costs: The complexity of the job also impacts labor costs. Technicians need to spend extra time ensuring darker colors like black are applied evenly to avoid visible mistakes.

Average Costs

Here is a general breakdown:

• Basic Paint Job: Ranges from $500 to $1,000 for a single coat of paint without addressing any dents or rust.
• Standard Paint Job: Generally costs between $1,000 and $5,000. This includes a higher quality paint and limited surface preparation.
• Showroom Quality: Can cost $5,000 to $20,000, involving multiple layers of high-quality paint, extensive prep work, and labor to ensure a flawless finish.

In Summary

While the base cost of a paint job can vary, darker colors like black often require more detailed work, leading to higher costs. Always get multiple quotes and ask specifically about how color and necessary surface preparations will impact the total price.

By understanding these factors, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision and avoid unexpected expenses in your vehicle’s paint job.

How much can it cost to replace cab corners on a vehicle?

Replacing cab corners on a vehicle can be a significant expense, primarily due to the labor involved. Here’s a breakdown to give you a clearer picture:

• Labor Costs: The labor required is often substantial because removing and replacing cab corners usually involves taking off the truck bed. This process is time-consuming and can drive up the costs. On average, labor alone can range from $500 to $1,500 depending on the shop rates and the complexity of the job.
• Material Costs: The cost of the replacement cab corners themselves can vary based on the make and model of your vehicle. Generally, you can expect to pay between $100 to $400 for the parts.
• Total Cost: When you combine both labor and materials, it’s not uncommon for the total cost to reach around $1,500 to $2,500. Some shops may offer lower or higher estimates, so it’s always a good idea to get multiple quotes before proceeding.

Remember, the price can vary based on your location, the specific shop, and the condition of your vehicle. Always ask for a detailed estimate to understand what you’re paying for.

How much might it cost to get a fender and flare fixed and painted?

Getting a fender and flare fixed and painted can vary widely in cost, depending on several factors. On average, you might expect to pay around $1,400 for this service. However, prices can differ based on the body shop’s location, the complexity of the repair, and the materials used.

Factors Affecting Cost

• Location: Urban areas usually have higher labor costs.
• Extent of Damage: Minor repairs are less expensive than extensive damage.
• Materials: High-quality paint and parts can increase the price.
• Labor Rates: Premium shops may charge more for their expertise.

Typical Cost Breakdown

1. Labor: $800-$1,000
2. Materials: $200-$400
3. Additional Fees: $50-$100 for diagnostics and miscellaneous expenses

For the most accurate estimate, it’s best to get quotes from multiple local body shops and compare them.

Is it possible to find someone who will do paint and bodywork for a lower price if you pay in cash or find someone who does it on the side?

Absolutely, it’s quite common to find lower-cost options for paint and bodywork by following a few strategies:

1. Ask Around Locally:Reach out to friends, family, or even local car enthusiasts. Often, you’ll find individuals who do paint and bodywork as a side job. These professionals typically charge less than established shops.
2. Leverage Social Media and Online Forums:Platforms like Facebook, Reddit, and specialized car forums can be gold mines for finding recommendations. People often share their experiences and can point you to reliable individuals or small-scale operators who offer competitive rates.
3. Check Community Boards:Local community boards, both online and in physical locations like grocery stores or community centers, sometimes feature ads from local handymen who offer auto services at a lower cost.
4. Cash Deals:Some bodywork professionals might be willing to offer a discount if you pay in cash. This avoids card processing fees for them and can be a win-win situation. It’s always worth asking if there’s a cash price when you get a quote.
5. DIY with Supplier Guidance:If you’re handy and willing to put in some effort, you can purchase good-quality paint and supplies from reputable sources and do the work yourself. Many suppliers offer detailed tutorials and customer support to guide you through the process.

By combining these approaches, you can significantly reduce the cost of paint and bodywork for your vehicle without compromising on quality.