Custom Restoration Guide

The Custom Restoration Guide includes standard operating procedures (SOPs) for custom and restoration projects, and was developed by PPG Refinish with you in mind. No matter what vehicle or vehicle substrate you are working on, this guide outlines PPG's recommended process for successfully surface prepping and painting your project.

Along with these SOPs, you should also refer to the helpful information contained in PPG's product data sheets that are available for each of the products you will be using.

We hope you find this guide an easy-to-follow, valuable asset for achieving your vision - a beautiful paint finish that will last for years. Download your copy of the Custom Restoration Guide below, and watch a video to learn more about the Custom Restoration Seminars that are held at our training centers across North America.

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Training using abrasive tools on panels

Take The Class - Custom Restoration Seminar

We've created a class that helps painters achieve great results with custom restoration projects from prep-time to show-time. In the seminar you'll learn about the latest products to use and the processes to apply them. You'll learn about the various substrates you might encounter after sanding down to the metal - and the best ways to prepare them. And with the wide variety of products available to choose from, we can help guide you in selecting the best undercoats, getting that great-looking, authentic color, and choosing the right clears that'll turn heads and protect your vehicle for years to come.

User Guides and Manuals

Custom Restoration Guide
Developed by PPG Refinish with you in mind. No matter what vehicle or vehicle substrate you are working on, this guide outlines PPG's recommended process for successfully surface prepping and painting your project.
Female worker polishing car bodywork
Identifying Common Paint Defects
Use this guide on identifying and solving the most common paint defects to help you recognize and resolve common paint issues that you may be experiencing.
Matte Finish Care Guide
To maintain your vehicle's low-gloss appearance for years to come, please refer to these maintenance recommendations.
OEM Color Code Locations Guide
Need help finding the manufacturer paint code for a vehicle? Use this OEM Color Code Locations guide as a quick reference for locating the paint code on Domestic and Import vehicles.
PPG Health and Safety Manual
The PPG Health and Safety Manual outlines important information for visiting PPG facilities and covers proper handling procedures for using PPG products.
Basic Refinishing Assumptions Guide
PPG Industries Automotive Refinish group makes these assumptions based on accepted industry practices, our knowledge, past experience and feedback from our employees and customers.