semper-fi

what is the best way to sand down the a car to prep it for primer what type of paper or other utencils will i need

rocketraider

Marine, if you have an air compressor and an air-operated D-A (dual action, the motion is orbital) sander, using it with some 80 grit sanding discs will work great and save your shoulders, arms and back. You can also find electric D-A sanders but they wear out quicker than air operated ones.

After all the scratches etc are featheredged, then put some 120 grit paper on the sander and go over the car again. That should get it ready for primer. There's some body and paint guys on here who will have tips and ideas, but the D-A should get you started.

Are you going to take off those fender flares or other bodywork? Here's a tip to get the best job- remove ALL the trim you possibly can before sanding. That way the sander can't nick it or leave D-A marks on it, and you don't have to fool with trying to get in close to it. You take it off, you simply keep sanding.