Paint and body resto for dummies...

[RMC_SS_LDO]

Other than wash/wax detail work, I have ZERO clue about body work or restoration.

I am trying to tackle my '87 Silverado and intend to have a pro prime and paint it, but I want to start repairing the body (rust abatement) and try to get stuff aligned before I get it painted.  I don't have the loot to just deliver it to someone and say "make it right" and I'm not in a rush, I just want it done right.

Any suggestions for how-to guides?  Most of what I've found are geared toward either dent removal or prepping and painting a body that is in good shape.

Thanks,

Allen

[1980c10]

 You could always remove your mirrors, door handles, locks, grille trim, door panels, bumpers etc. But talk to the guy you will have paint it and ask what he could have you do otherwise you might just create extra work for them.

[Blazin]

Well you have two options, both of which are almost always used in rust repair. (1) replacing the entire panel. (2) will be patching or welding in new sections. Floors, cab mounts, rockers, cab corners etc .
You will need to learn how to weld for these, and have a half way decent 110 or 220 mig welder that uses gas. If welding your self is not an option you could strip off the fenders doors etc. if needed. Have the body shop do your welding for you. Have them jamb it out, and you hang all the new panels on it. get them lined up nice, and have them paint it.

[RMC_SS_LDO]

The shop that will be doing the paint and body work will be replacing sections with steel or replacing the entire panel.  I'm just trying to figure out if there is anything I can do in advance to slow the further decline.  I honestly hadn't thought about making more work for the shop...

Another related questions; how much is gained pulling the engine and transmission for paint work?  This is not being restored as a show truck, it will be an occasional driver.  My end goal is to have (in effect) a new truck when I'm done that will be driven and used as a light duty truck, looks and drives good and is comfortable.

[Blazin]

If you pull the motor and trans etc. you can do a bang up job of repainting the frame. If the shop you take it too is familiar with C/K Chevy's I would pull the nose, doors, and bed. Pull the motor, trans, fuel tank, etc. If you have access to a compressor needle scale, and Chassis saver the frame. Or sand blast it, prime and paint it? Run new brake / fuel lines etc. Reason I say if they are familiar with them is they won't have a problem reassembling it with someone else taking it apart. Or you could pull the entire nose off in one piece. Might make there job easier if they tear down the front clip.
If you are reusing the doors you could take the mirrors, door locks, and handles out etc.Then when it comes back from paint you could put them back in.