[nis.k.a.]

I would say more times than not people start out at least with 3600 or 4000 as a starting grit. 6000 and above is really more buffing than sand leveling. I usually start out with 3600 to make sure everything is level. I used to start out with 3200 but it's too easy to leave tiny scratches or swirl marks in the paint.

Of course you did say you were painting too far from the body so I can see how 3000 or lower may be necessary.

Honestly.... It's all trial and error.