I'm confused I went to the parts store and asked for some etching primer. He gave me PPG DX1791 & DX1792. The panflet says "Self Etching Primer" and the Can and bottle say "Wash primer". So which is it or is it both or what? I'm in over my head when it comes to body work but I want to do it anyway.

It is just a terminology difference, I have heard etching primer called wash primer also by the manufacturer. If you are working with bare steel just make sure it is a self-etching primer recommended for bare steel and follow the directions.

Body work just takes time to learn, know when to ask the experts and you should have fun with it.

Check out a posting named MARTINSR???, he goes into detail about the difference between wash and etching primers. Some of this is new to me but you can count on the accuracy of the information.

I saw that post and it got me looking at what I had. He was talking like there was a differance between wash and etching. Cup&Paste-->

“Etch primer” (some are 2K)

Typical “etch primers” have much more solids and body than “wash” primers. They are more forgiving than “wash” primers, one thing being a much longer re-coat window. They are basically used to aid in adhesion and corrosion protection as with “wash” primer. You would choose “typical” etch over “wash” if you have some paint or plastic filler as a substrate along with the bare metal. Some brands have a recommendation to apply top coats over it also. This could be very useful in a money saving or time saving is important.