This recent posting reminded me of this.

I showed my VanaJetta conversion to a recently curious local
paint/body shop supply guy. He commented on my paint, and mentioned
that "a guy" at a local paint/body shop, would paint a car for app.
$200 IF one does all the prep/masking etc. and buys the supplies.
Painting a Vanagon/Westy would be more labour/material obviously.

Yes prep takes time (in my case LOTS --- ;^). And some experience too.
Yes the outcome, barring any drips, would rely almost 100% on the prep
and choice of paint. Yes good/proper paint is $$. But, I would guess
that for an affordable price, one might get a good paint job. Not
knocking hand painting (nice job James).

I'm sure it's been talked about before, but thought I'd "throw it in
the ring". It's certainly something I would consider, and figured
others might consider it too thus be inspired to "look around" for
good painters willing to "just spray". (and maybe a little sanding?)

Neil.

--
Neil Nicholson '81 JettaWesty "Jaco
http://groups.google.com/group/vanagons-with-vw-inline-4-cylinder-gas-engines
http://web.mac.com/tubaneil
http://tubaneil.googlepages.com/