Yikes! If I were expecting to get laid off I wouldn't even consider a paint job. But if you do, it sounds like the extra time off option (The "$50 paint job") is right up your alley.
Regarding the primer, I think you'll find it cheaper to buy the professional primer that you have to mix and spray, even after purchasing a cheap harbor freight gun. The cost per volume of the rattle can paint is not cost effective for a whole truck. And your finger gets tired pretty quick holding down that little push button.
And lastly, I just wanted to thank Pee-Roy for his avatar. It took me 10 minutes to read this rather small post... distracting.
Eric Q.
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'75 body with '82 diesel running gear
My build thread.