Jim,
I want to follow this build....regarding the paint post a pics. If the previous owner sanded the original finish then I think you might need a repaint etc .My Moto had a clear coat on it so if only top coat you may get lucky..will the new paint flake off easily? if not try wet sanding with 800 or 1000 and go slow...don't cut through the original finish etc. In any event you might be able to salvage the original but may not be the best will loose the stripping and silkscreening....worth a try.
Regards, Ben