I will admit my own experience with powdercoating is limited. We've had one in the area who did custom powdercoating. He was good at it, but, unfortunately, had to close shop because he lost the use of both of his hands.
But I get what you're saying. Powdercoating around here is done on the industrial level with several plants in the area using it. Definately a different creature when you're doing it for fire hydrants. I can see where some folks who have done it on the industrial level might have a hard time making the transition into the custom automotive industry.
