2000 grit sand paper wont get you anywhere lol.. you'll wanna start with some 120, then work your way up to some 400. Then, if your really anal some 600 would be OK (but not necessary) before paint.
If you are sanding with 2000 grit sand paper you are making a surface that is less likely for paint to adhere to and last through the treatment of your fingers. 2000 grit is actually used for removing fine scratches in clear coat, not surface prep.
The rubber coating serves a purpose. Anyone that has heavily oily fingers, or uses lotion alot will notice the "rubber" coating peeling off faster, its not from the sun, trust me.
Look at any Audi that a woman drives, you can tell exactly which buttons she presses all the time!
