Car paint prep is an essential step in the process of getting a new paint job for a car. While options such as sanding down the existing paint or media-blasting the body are available, the most thorough way to ensure a perfect coat of new paint is to have the car stripped down to bare metal and acid-dipped. Acid-dipping involves suspending the disassembled car by ropes and lowering it into a vat of acid that chemically strips away everything that’s not metal, including paint, rubber, glue, and filler.
The process of acid dipping
3S Chemicals LLC of Nanty-Glo, Pennsylvania uses a three-step process in acid-dipping to ensure that nothing is left on the car before it goes to paint. First, the car is dipped in an alkaline degreaser and paint remover to eliminate any residue and paint. Next, it goes through a food-safe rust remover to get rid of any rust on the body, leaving only good, usable metal. Finally, it is dipped into a rust inhibitor fluid to prevent further rusting before the painting process begins.
A closer look at the process
The Minute_of_Dangle YouTube channel provides a detailed look at the acid-dipping process on a 1972 Porsche 911. This particular car required multiple dips in the acid due to its rough condition, with layers of old paint, a hole in the roof, and rust hiding beneath the fiberglass. Watching the layers of paint effortlessly fall away with a pressure washer is incredibly satisfying, with stubborn substances like seam-sealer and fiberglass needing multiple acid baths to completely remove. The entire process, which uses environmentally safe products, takes about six weeks to complete.
Advantages of acid dipping
Acid dipping offers several advantages when prepping a car for a new paint job. Firstly, it ensures that all layers of paint, rust, and contaminants are completely removed, providing a clean surface for the new paint to adhere to. Additionally, the rust inhibitor used in the process helps prevent future rusting, preserving the integrity of the body for a longer period. Acid-dipped cars are also known to have a smoother finish compared to those that undergo other prepping methods, resulting in a more professional-looking paint job.
Considerations before acid-dipping
Before opting for acid-dipping as a paint preparation method, it’s essential to consider a few factors. Firstly, the cost of acid-dipping can be higher compared to other methods due to the intensive nature of the process. Additionally, some older cars with delicate components or structures may not be suitable for acid-dipping, as the chemicals used can potentially damage certain materials if not handled properly. It’s also important to choose a reputable and experienced company to perform the acid-dipping, ensuring that the process is done correctly and safely.
Conclusion
In conclusion, acid-dipping is a thorough and effective method of prepping a car for a new paint job. By stripping the vehicle down to bare metal and removing all contaminants, it provides a clean canvas for the application of fresh paint. While it may require more time and investment compared to other methods, the results are typically worth it in terms of the quality and longevity of the paint job. Before deciding to acid-dip a car, it’s important to weigh the cost and potential risks involved, as well as to choose a reputable professional to perform the process. Ultimately, acid-dipping can help achieve a flawless finish and ensure that the new paint job looks pristine for years to come.