I go to that autobodystore.com link on a regular basis to read the posts. I have adjusted my plan on how to attack this job and will do most everything myself except for the final spraying. Unless I change my mind on that too. Just keep researching.
The first thing you want to do is sand/strip the old paint and prime it with an epoxy primer. This will give you a long window to get the rest done while protecting the metal. You can do this with a cheaper gun and even piece by piece if necessary. Watch out that epoxy primer is not healthy to breathe.
