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Hi Guys,

I was just cruising the web reading about the history of MV paint and color codes......fascinating stuff, and so much info out there as well as opinions. Then I started looking at the prices of MV paint, which we know can be anything from "not much" to "holy carp". Which got me thinking......how much paint does it actually take to paint an entire M37 if you were to take one apart and restore it piece by piece? I realize it's different for everyone depending on your painting style, number of coats, etc......but I'm just trying to get an idea if we're talking 3 quarts or 3 gallons or what.

thanks,
bob

"Field-painting" mine took a gallon and a half for a couple of solid coats-didn't paint the underside.
Gary

Hi Bob,

It all depends on how many coats you plan on doing and if the frame is the same color as the body.

Here is what I've done so far.

Engine, tranny, transfer case: 12 rattle cans of MB/GPW Hi temp EP
Frame and axles: 1 Qt Primer sealer PPG (Black), 2 Qts Frame Paint with hardener PPG (Satin Black) (Note all small parts were powder coated to match paint)
Body Primer: 2 Gallons #112 Gray ZP (GCI)
Body, misc drive line parts and rims: 4 Gallons #24087 SG OD (GCI)

Bert

Just off the top of my head I'm thinking frame up restoration all parts pulled, cleaned primed and painted would be about 6 gallons. 3 gallons of primer and 3 gallons of top coat.

Many variables to that question. We have painted many by the piece, so that no surface is left uncoated. How much it takes is directly related to one's color choice as some colors offer better coverage than others by their very nature. Darker shades have more solids content and coverage is better in fewer coats. It is also a huge advantage if you use a tintable primer. Color coat takes less material to get good coverage; and the best advantage is if or when minor scratches do occur later; many times they are not noticable because the primer is the same shade as the color coat.

How much does it take; using a darker shade, 4 gallons will usually do it with a small amount left on hand for possible later use; touch up, etc. Lighter shades may easily take double that amount or around 8 gallons to get really desirable coverage. We have found that the lightest shades such as yellow or orange will actually cover better and faster when going over primer that is olive tinted. One would think using a darker primer shade such as olive would be harder to cover with the lighter shades; and you may be one that has to actually try it to convience yourself. It is truth; it does make coverage much easier. Another trick is when using darker shaded color coats, applying those over white primer will make the final finish show off a much brighter tone. I advise working with a knowledgable paint rep that knows his job well. Today's coatings are complex chemical blends that can go wrong in a huge (and very costly) way if not managed correctly.