Hot take: Should we stop using filler primer on big jobs? Had a reality check at a shop in Phoenix last June

I was down in Phoenix last June helping a buddy on a fleet job, 12 vans all with rock chips and minor dents. We were burning through filler primer like crazy, sanding everything down, and then putting on sealer after. But this old timer running the booth said we were wasting money and time, that good epoxy primer is all you need if you prep right. I argued back saying filler primer hides the small stuff better. But after watching his crew skip filler primer and still get flawless finishes with just a couple coats of epoxy and sealer, I started wondering. The cost difference was huge, like saving $40 a van just on materials, plus the time. But then I worry about orange peel or scratches showing through. So which side are you on, do you still use filler primer for big repaints or have you cut it out? Anyone else try skipping it on a big job and regret it or love it?

3 comments

3 Comments

dylanwilliams2mo ago

That old timer's claim about epoxy alone working well, did you actually test it yourself on one of those vans?

lilyo302mo ago

read some van builder swearing by epoxy on a forum a few years back, said it held up fine.

noah_barnes1mo ago

Heard the same thing from a guy who built a cabin. @dylanwilliams might be onto something questioning it though.