When to send body to bodyshop ?

[DonC]

Michel:
My position has always been that if you don't feel comfortable doing a specific task, let the experts handle it.
Body panels (doors, hood, trunk) should be perfectly alligned before the car is painted. Everything will have to be broken down again before paint but by making sure everything is correct before painting, putting it back together after won't induce any damage to the finish.
Body and paint is an art form in itself and, in my opinion, should be left to someone with experience. Not a place for novices unless you're using the build as a learning experience for nonexistant skills.
The finished product is what it's all about and, while it's great to be able to say "I did it all myslef", if the finished product looks it you may not be satisfied with the result.
DonC