[PNJSNAK]

Jim;
I would wait until you fit the body to the chassis with the engine in and wheels and tires in place.
You have to cut openings for the side pipes and holes for the windsheild, roll bars and either quick jacks or bumper mounting holes.
Once all that is done then you can take the body back off and have it painted.
Ask Joe T who the guy he had paint his car, I believe he is near the Rochester area.
I am still running the original Gel Coat color with "No" stipes and no Clearcoat, 6 years and 13k miles.
Jim