I apologize if this has been asked before, I couldn't find it.

I am in the process of breaking down my '55 F-100, and I found myself thinking ahead and wondering about paint. I am going to take the truck to a professional to have it painted, I haven't picked a shop yet. I am going to do a dark Ford Blue, non-metallic.

Anyway, my question is, can I bring the truck in disassembled completely and have it painted, or is mostly assembled preferred?

 

I would think that question would be better asked of any potential shop you may choose. Some may want it assembled. Some may not want to hassle of keeping up with all the separate pieces. Professional covers a large spectrum.

 

That's what I kind of figured, thanks. Since I am still in breakdown phase, I'm not even really supposed to be thinking about paint yet, but it's a question that popped up. I will do some shopping for a good paint shop.

 

Never too early to think about any step in a project like an old truck.

 

I would paint the disassembled pieces.
Did this with my 55. Just be careful putting it together so as not to scratch anything.
You will get a better paint job this way.

 

Like Fred said, paint the pieces if you want a top quality paint job. However, do not paint anything that has not been assembled and checked for final fit using the chassis, motor and anything else you intend to modify. Otherwise, you will be trying to get the painted hood to close and adjust against the painted cowl and fenders.

 

Lots of good points made. I too prefer painting individual pieces and then assembly. I'd love to take the whole front assembly off my truck but the previous owner had it painted assembled. Now there are no gaps between individual panels since they were painted over. If I take it apart now I will have a mess.

 

Thanks guys. I shouldn't have an issue with fit since all body panels coming off are going back on and I am not planning on replacing the motor. I will put nee suspension on but it will be to stock specs.

 

If you are using fender welting it is near impossible to paint the assembled truck with out painting the welting. Just something else to confuse matters.

 

Yep, I am...so I guess at the very least, the fenders will have to be off.

 

The body shop that painted my '54 left the front fenders loose so there was a small gap between the fender and the cab. After it was painted we put the welting in,,turned out great. The box and rear fenders were painted separate.