Chuck Yerkes <chuck+nbsd@2003.snew.com>  wrote:
 > The best way to do it yourself would be to strip/sand a case,
 > prime it (really, primer is key) and then paint it a few times.
 > A clearcoat finish will help it last.

You have to make sure you use a primer that is at least somewhat
compatible with the paint they're using at the auto body shop.

Easiest overall is to sandblast the metal of the case, and then
wash it down with some phosphoric acid (Naval Jelly at your hardware
store).  Then after about 10 minutes, wash the phosphoric acid off
with water. Then take the mess down to the auto body shop and get
them to prime it/paint it next time they're doing a car.  A 6 of 
beer can probably convince some guy at an independant paint shop
to hang your case in the booth when they're doing a car. (Considering
how little paint it'll use).

 > You could do a powder coat, but that's not really easy for
 > a one off.

Figure on at least $100. Black Santex would look good on a case.