May 30, 2025 2 min read
If you’ve been around long enough, you already know: paint hides nothing — it magnifies your mistakes.
In this quick progress update on the C10 short bed project, I’m showing you why I always mock up before final paint. No shortcuts. No guessing. This is one of the most critical steps in any build, whether you’re working on a full frame-off or just buttoning up a front end.
Mocking up before paint isn't optional — it’s insurance. Every panel, bracket, trim piece, and bolt hole gets checked before it’s buried under clear coat. Why? Because this is when you:
✅ Check panel gaps
✅ Align doors and fenders
✅ Verify bolt hole placement
✅ Make any last-minute tweaks
You do it now, before you're dealing with chipped paint, scratched powder coat, or busted knuckles fixing something after it’s finished.
Use self-tapping screws or clecos for fast mock-up fitment.
Never assume aftermarket parts will fit right out of the box.
Mark alignment points with painter’s tape and Sharpie.
Take reference photos before teardown — they save you later.
Pay extra attention to hood and bumper fitment now, not after paint.
Here’s what I keep within reach during every mock-up phase:
(Amazon affiliate links included — helps support the site, no extra cost to you.)
Tool | What It's For | Link |
---|---|---|
Cleco Fasteners & Pliers | Temporary panel holding | Shop on Amazon |
Panel Removal Tool Set | Trim & alignment tweaks | Shop on Amazon |
Digital Caliper | Check gaps & symmetry | Shop on Amazon |
Multi-Surface Painter’s Tape | Mark alignment points | Shop on Amazon |
This is just one part of the full build. Follow along for updates, real-world shop tips, and no-BS advice from someone who’s done this hundreds of times.
Bookmark VtwinsToV8s.com or follow me on TikTok and YouTube to stay in the loop.
Got a project of your own? I offer 1-on-1 coaching for classic car restorations. Whether you're stuck or just want an expert eye, hit me up and let’s make it happen.
Let me know when the video is live on YouTube or Shopify and I’ll plug in the embed code properly. Or if you want to include a downloadable checklist from this phase for email capture, I can build that too.