single stage vs. base/clear coat debate

[69Tom]

So it's getting close to painting my '68 442, and a discussion in another thread got me thinking about paint systems and which I should use. Should I go with the more modern and durable bc/cc system or should I go with, say, a single stage acrylic for a more original finish?

Color is white bottom with black paint top.

I was wondering what everyone's opinion is on this? Stupid to go with single stage, or keep it looking as close to original as possible??

[mockingbird812]

Before I vote, how will the car be used. Driven alot? Entered in judging? Show car?

[69Tom]

Well, I guess a couple of background things. I live in NYC at the moment, so I don't have or need a daily driver. If/when I decide to move back to Phoenix, at that point, I'm sure I'd drive it much more.

I might enter it in the occasional show, but overall, I'm simply restoring it for my use and enjoyment. And I do plan on driving the car.

Hope that helps those voting. And thanks for the vote. (I feel like a politician. haha)

[downunder1]

My LS6 was painted in single stage over 12 years ago and it looks just about as good now as it did back then. I race it a bit and drive it a lot and it stands up real good with a nice deep shine.

[Schonyenko2]

Originally your car would have been sprayed laquer and factory buffed. I'd expect getting that in NY might be an issue, and, or getting someone who actually knew how to spray it.
If your just going to a different single stage, I'm not sure you'll buy much.
Bc/cc might be your best overall choice. You can always leave the clear a tad rough if you want a little factory peel. JMHO

[beater68427]

What is your vision on the car? Thats seems to be the best question in my mind, I have painted them single and base clear, I have found as I get older, I like the more original old school look, and like single stage on my original cars more than anything, on my hot rods and PT stuff I like base clear, I guess it depends on what your doing or intent, I have herd alot of shops do not spray single anymore, I think the young guns just don't know how... as far as durability, I think as long as you buy quality paint on single there is no problem, I had a 66 Hemi Satellite, I painted 22 years ago in single (Forest Green) saw it at a show 3 years ago I started talking to the guy he told me it was the original paint, Looked like it could be, but very nice still held in strong, I had to tell him that was my old car and I painted it 20 years ago, I told him some of the history on the car, and he knew it was mine, this is a pic of a Olds I just sold PPG single and a black 65 Chrysler, the 65 the hood tops of doors were painted 20 some years ago and still looks good the doors sides trunk and roof are all mopar, still boils down to you and your own style...







I had to add that pic love it...

[69Tom]

Well, I'm going with a dead stock look. Dog dish hub caps, steel wheels. It's a post car with a bench seat.

I too have started going for more of the "original" look. Guess a) I'm not sure how wise it is in terms of paint quality and b) I was curious as to what people out there like more.

I really like the look of the cars in your pics. The gloss seems "perfect" for the period of each car.

I am shooting it myself, so as far as finding someone, look no further. haha.

[Mr. Chevy]

I like single stage urethane.. It's easy and durable..

Rich

[Mr70]

I like a single stage when it's done right.My friend had it done to his,and it came out great but a lil tricky.Another here had it applied on his,but the shop didn't prep properly so there was slight contamination and the paint lifted freely off within a year.Aggressive broad bubbling everywhere.He had it redone w/BC/CC.
I understand the argument against BC/CC,as some shops reeeally do layer on the clear coat too much,and it just turns out so overdone.Owners just grin & say "Looks Brand new,don't it".
My Chevelle has BC/CC & I love it for it's final color match,look & cost,but especially for the bullet proof like durability & results after touch up later on if need be.