Last April I had hail damage and now finally have the time to get the car fixed. And since insurance is already nearly paying for a full paint job, I though it would be a good opportunity to change the color.

But, how much of a PITA was it to strip everything out and then put everything back in? And what did you leave in? Vaccum lines, what suspension pieces, bumpers, etc.? I'll be talking to the body shop to get a better list but I'd like your input aswell.

If I decide to just keep the stock color, how much should I remove to get the best paint job?

Also, with the engine bay, should I avoid putting the engine back in so I can wax it, or will having a "mostly cured" clear coat be enough?

I know I've left a few questions out and I'll ask them later. Any other tips would be helpful aswell; such as downtime and whatever comes to your mind.

Thanks.