I want to use a HVLP sprayer can anyone help with the paint to thinner or retarder ratio?
I know the rule of thumb is the consistency of milk but I also would like to know the best agent to use for mixing with the paint. I'm painting my new paint match bumper due to the
recent fender bender
https://dodgeforum.com/forum/2nd-gen...ugh-proof.html
I've used the rattle can but would rather get used to using the sprayer. I know the can is easier but the results over a large area with a sprayer are far better IMO. any help or suggestions? Thanks

 

the car quest guys know a lot about mixing and should have what you need to get it done.

 

It depends on the brand and type of paint you're using. If you get it from an auto paint supply store, the person there should know the reduction, and it should be on the label when they mix it for you.

 

Most auto/body paint is a 50/50 mix of paint to reducer. You should ask if you are painting plastic panels if you need to add a flex additive or need any special type of primer. I certainly would not recommend using a hardener on paint that will go onto plastic. You want to keep pliability and flexibility. Plastics will expand and contract more than metal will. I would also suggest a single stage instead of a two stage. Less work and will give you the same results for what you are using it on.

 

I'm closest to O'reiley's and autozone don't have any car quest's that I'm aware of but I will try those

I'm going to try duplicolor in the can as opposed to the rattle can The liocal counter help isn't too up on painting just what they find in their books

I'm going to paint the metal bumper mainly, going to paint the plastic parts with what I have left in the rattle can to use it up. I'm not planning on using hardner in fact didn't even know of it. I am planning on using some sort of retarder, I read temps over 95 when spraying will be too warm without it. said drying too fast will cause it to crack so I'm going to try that. I just need to find the ratio. I'll try the 50/50 see how that tests out thanks I'll keep you informed

 

I'll definately check it out thanks

 

Painting plastics is kinda tricky. My dad usually uses an adhesion promoter, I think called Bully Dog, that allows the paint to stick better. It usually helps prevent the paint from flaking.

Paint supply stores will have all the info sheets that should include all the ratios. They should also be able to tell what type of reducers/hardeners you'll need per application.

 

Yea, I was going to mention that also but, I haven't had that good a luck with "Bull Dog". It really doesn't matter since he said he is painting the metal part of the bumper, not the plastics like we assumed.