Auto body repair & detailing: 1929 dodge body work, grit paper, body filler

Question
Hello William and thank you for your assistance in advance.  I have a 1929 dodge that I have completed the engine and interior on.  I would like to do the body work as it was previously painted(also body work done) about 20 years ago, and was wondering if you could offer any advice.  I dont think I will paint it myself, but will send to a shop, but would like to have it completely preped before I ship it off.  I guess my biggest question is, what type of body filler do I use, and how far down does it have to be sanded and with what grit paper.  Any other tips you can offer would be much appreciated.

Thanks Again for your help,
Chris


Answer
Hello Chris! One, use Rage bodyfiller. Sand it with 36 or 80 grit paper. I believe Rage is made by evercoat or USC.  Grind any spots that need filled with a 36 grit sanding disc, then feather out around it with 80 grit on a DA sander. For small spots and final fill, use USC Icing, PN 26006. It sands great with 150 or 180 grit paper. Final sand all body filler spots with 180, then follow with 320 to knock the edge off, so to speak. It leads to less primer shrinkage. If the old finish is laquer, and I highly suspect it is, you will need to use laquer primer surfacer. You can use urethane primer, but you will need to full panel prime the entire car. If you don't, anywhere that the old paint meets the new primer, the new paint will craze when it's applied. That means more work, and more money. I would suggest stripping the car, but you have no way to know what is underneath. There could be massive body filler spots, and you would have to redo them. The new paint job will last longer if you completely strip it, but like I said, it could be a gargantuan task. If time and cost is an object, just redo any bad spots. If time, money, and talent is NO object, strip the car back to metal. Be warned-You could be looking at a 5 year project. If the paint looks intact, no cracking or peeling, you will be okay painting  over the old finish. I'm sure its just going to see light duty use, and see no salt or rain. Now, remember, Mechanical is nuts and bolts. Body work is time, patience, talent, and time. Did I mention it takes a long time? You better get started, the sun is gonna go down in a couple hours. Good luck and enjoy your project! Bill