How long is a rope?
I'm sorry to hear about the new damage. I am not trying to be facetious, but wanting to know "How much does a paint job cost?" Is much like "How long is a rope?" There are many variables to consider. Such as age of truck, how long do you plan to keep it, general mechanical condition, current ACTUAL market value, your planned usage of the truck, and maybe even the amount of sentimental value you place on it. I used to do a lot of my own paint work. Paint is labor intensive, this is how I could get very nice paint jobs that I could afford. I had the time and ability. I once did the grille of an International. (the easy bolt off kind) I put a huge of time and effort into it, an was rewarded with almost unbelievable finished product. The truckers at the truck stops noticed and wanted to know what I would charge for theirs. Forget it! even at $10/hr and materials you could buy 3 or 4 new ones. (BTW I also own top notch guns, sanders and a compressor that blows DRY air.)
I would suggest as has been previously posted to shop around at the independents in your area, look at the jobs in progress, shop conditions, and most importantly, their painting area, as in "Do they have an actual booth?" A booth is not always neccessary, but I have difficulty seeing a paint business staying in business without one. Talk to the shop owner/manager and be certtain that you both fully understand what your expectations are. If he tries to sell you on Imron or Sunfire paint when all you need is factory grade acrylic enamel, you might want to interview another shop.
A talented kid with an open yard space can often produce a good "20-Foot paint job"! That is a job that looks OK from 20 or so feet away.
Respectfully,
BINGO53 :great: