Auto body repair & detailing: primer on 2-stage paint job, stage paint, surface scratches

Question
Hi Bill,
I am preparing to paint a 96 Rodeo. The current paint is in ok shape. The clear coat is not cracking or breaking away anywhere. There are mostly small dings and surface scratches. Do you think I need to prime the entire car prior to base coat application. If not what grit should I use on the existing paint, and if so what grit should I wet sand the primer to prior to base coat application - Thanks

Answer
Only spot prime anywhere you break throught the paint, or apply filler. There is absolutely no need to prime the entire car. Wet sand the entire finish, including the primer, with 600 wet. Use a grey scotch brite to go around door edges or anywhere else sandpaper is not practical, or you are likely to go through the old finish.  Bill