The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Paint and Body Shop Stupid Paint Question

While I don't agree with Czechman about not using sandpaper, I do agree with the admonishment to be detail oriented. While scotchbrite might do an OK job, nothing beats a good old wetsand to smooth primer. Any roughness or texture in the primer will transfer to the topcoat. As for what grit of paper to use, read the instructions on the can of paint. If the paper's too fine the paint won't bond well. If the paper's too coarse the sand scratches will show through the topcoat (any roughness or texture will show through). The paint manufacturers spend a LOT of money on R&D to determine what works best for their product and they usually put that information on the label.