motor or body work

I prefer to do as much mecahnical as possible before shell painting. Painting the engine bay before engine goes in is easy enough. Those who say fender covers etc.. protect the paint have to admit they have seen a floor jack, air hose or something scar a paint job. Sure the factory painted first but consider their work conditions, equipment, experience. Still sht happens. I've seen their build sheets with back to body shop markings on them due to scratches and dings.