What is the correct paint thickness for a 993...
Rennlist Member
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 1,554
Likes: 51
From: PA
I was told by a 911 expert, who owens his own shop in the western suburbs of Philly (I don't want to use his name without permission), that the paint thickness should be around 4-5 mils. He measured my car a few months ago at this thickness. I imagine a little variation on horizontal and vertical surfaces would be expected. Color may have some effect also.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 1,024
Likes: 88
From: Mid-Atlantic
4-5 mils is the most common original factory paint thickness. Occasionally I see readings up to 5.5 mils. Readings over 6 mils indicate more than the original factory finish - can also include refinishing at the factory or port of entry. When you see a reading over 5 mils, take more readings with the paint meter as they can occasionally provide inconsistent readings. Also check the jambs for overspray and masking lines.
Thread Starter
Track Day
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 15
Likes: 0
SKM, it sounds like you know your stuff...
should I be concerned if it is metering out between 4.0-6.0 mil.? Does it sould like this car is all original paint. I assume that a fenderor hood repaint would make the thickness north of 8 mil. What do you think
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 1,024
Likes: 88
From: Mid-Atlantic
I'd assume a re-paint with any readings over 6 mils and 8-ish would be common for a re-painted panel. Under 6 mils, I'd take several readings on each panel to determine consistency and also compare those readings to the other panels. Also, I'd carefully examine the jambs and edges of the panels visually and buy running your fingers over them. Factory paint should be glossy and smooth (even with the factory orange peel/texture). Sometimes you'll feel subtle differences in the finish before you see them.
