The mate (Jon) who cam to give me a hand on saturday (and then share in victory beers on saturday night), did indeed once again try to convince me to do the paint job myself. I've had a look at that "paintman" website, and the prices and colour range seem good.
My mate Jon reckons that the "prep" that most spray places do amounts to using a cutting compound on a polishing machine, then rinse with isopropyl alcohol. I'm quite happy to invest in that kit if that's really all there is to it. I'm trying to source a newish rear tub to save having to mess about with replacing cappings, floor supports, etc. Will see how that goes.
In the mean time, Richards asked if they could have a photo of the incorrect g/box xmember, which I have duly sent them. I *may* have mentioned that ths build thread was online...