Paint reading and thickness

[Crush]

What brand is best for measuring paint thickness and what numbers should I expect on each panel? Do cars of the 70’s, 80’s &90’s all have different thickness? Repainted panels will have higher readings? Do cheaper devices read as good as the more expensive?
Any other thoughts?

Thx in advance
Bary

[Crush]

Any thoughts?

[carnut4life]

I have a Fender Splendor paint thickness gauge but I've only used it once, on a 1970 Chevelle SS. Most of the paint on that car was .0025"-.0040 thick", the stripes were .005"-.006" thick. This is the only gauge I've ever used so I can't speak about other thickness gauges Crush.

[Steve Shauger]

I recommend the Fender Splendor as well. I have FS488 which has been trouble free, with repeatable readings. There are variations with the different applied paints and technology. The key is consistency throughout the vehicle. Big variations may indicate repair.

[L16pilot]

Exactly what at Steve said...consistency is the key. I use a relatively inexpensive CEM brand device...probably stands for China Electronics Mfg...or something like that...but it is consistent. On GM lacquer vehicles, I typically find between 3-5 mils on original finishes. It's when you start measuring 7+ that sends up red flags. Can't speak for Mopar or Ford as to typical original paint thickness to be expected.

[SS427]

I also have the FS488 Fender Splendor and have been using it on my inspections for the last 5 years or so. Totally trouble free and accurate. Its been a great tool.

[Stefano]

You can purchase paint measuring devices which cost thousands of $$$$. I have been using Fender Splender brand without issues for many years and they cost much less.