I don't think my firewall will look as cool as ss396boy, but I'm going to give it a try. I have my 66 firewall epoxy primered and I'm starting the filler. I'm keeping the heater so I won't be messing with that side too much,

The only thing I've ever sprayed has been the epoxy two weeks ago! So I really don't know what to do after the filler? I want to paint the firewall semi-gloss black as the finished product.

My question is....
What are the inbetween steps for painting the firewall?

My epoxy is Matrix brand.

This is a side shot of the car as it sits...

http://s578.photobucket.com/albums/ss224/ckhenry77/?action=view&current=100_2875.jpg

talked to the matrix paint guy today. He said to fill it, block it, prime it with high build and then shoot it. He suggeted a underhood paint from matrix or a one stage semi gloss. Does this sound about right?

I would spray the entire firewall with 1 coat of epoxy after you have finished with your filler. You are likely to have bare metal spots showing here and there, the epoxy will protect those bare metal spots.

Spray 1 coat of epoxy then wait about a 1 to 2 hours then spray 3 coats of a high build primer. Allow to cure for a few days then block sand with 180 grit paper. Apply 3 coats of primer and allow to dry. This time if the firewall is smooth to your liking block sand with 600 grit wet then apply your paint.

I would use a single stage urethane with flattener added to kill the gloss. SS urethane will give you the best protection...Eric

so I took your advice "sevt chevelle" and did body work on the firewall yesterday and this morning. I then put down two coats of epoxy primer. Once that went down I noticed a couple of places that need a little bit more sanding to bring the edge down and a couple of places that could use a bit more filler. Is this normal? I realize I'm a nubie, but just wondering if this is typically until you get the hang of all this body working?

Next step - let this stuff cure and then sand and add filler where necessary then put on the high build primer?

Thanks

photos are on my link - updated this afternoon...

http://s578.photobucket.com/albums/ss224/ckhenry77/?action=view&current=IMG_2330.jpg

so I took your advice "sevt chevelle" and did body work on the firewall yesterday and this morning. I then put down two coats of epoxy primer. Once that went down I noticed a couple of places that need a little bit more sanding to bring the edge down and a couple of places that could use a bit more filler. Is this normal? I realize I'm a nubie, but just wondering if this is typically until you get the hang of all this body working?



Is it normal for a guy new to body work to miss a spot or two...YES
Heck even pros miss spots at times.

Are you sure you need for work in those areas or are you just seeing the different substrates soak up the epoxy differently and give the impression of shoddy work?

In simple words, bare metal, filler and other paint absorb epoxy differently many times outlining where the filler is giving a false visual impression.
Wait til the epoxy cures and simply feel the panel with your hand, does it feel straight and smooth?

If you are unsure take a block with some 400 grit paper and lightly sand the epoxy, this will reveal any low/high spots.

A good basic rule is if you can feel the low spot then it needs for filler.

A good basic rule is if you can feel the low spot then it needs for filler.

I can feel it ... It is amazing what putting some primer does for the visual! I have probably three places that need some extra attention. Thanks again for your advice!