I have recently acquired a 1982 245 DL from Colorado that manifests some serious rust damage on the exterior. I wish to stop any further corrosion, repair damage as necessary and apply paint(s)/or something(s) to provide a protective skin on the whole body to protect it from the ravages of the salt applied to NY roads in the winter. While body protection is my principle objective, I would also like the vehicle's overall appearance to be improved as well. I am most familiar with the use of a paint brush and believe that to be the most economical means of applying paint.

Any suggestions about how to achieve the protection desired would be greatly appreciated. Is primer necessary? What kind of paint? What kind of patching material should be used in the severely corroded areas? What will most effectively treat and arrest rust in the areas most affected? What about areas exhibiting minor rusting? What kind of general surface treatment of the original finish for the best results with the new paint? Thank you very much!