Setup for a Newbie ?
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Hi Guys,
looking to buy stuff … so I can paint stuff from time to time ..
I understand that experience/practice what is important … But I have to start somewhere …What do I need ?
Compressor – Size ?
Oil Filter, Water Filter ?
Hose ?Gun for Primer ? any recommendations ?
Paint gun Any recommendations something good quality – I don’t like to invest money in crap .. you pay twice at the end ..anything else ?
PS, I got cheap Snap On Excalibur H.O HVLP Paint Gun # BF900EXC14 1.4 tip is this suitable for Waterborn … Base/Clear ?
Thank’s
Look at some of Nexons videos on youtube, he turns out some really impressive work with a relitively lo-tech setup. He has some really good ideas for setting up temp paint booths, exhaust fan, air compressor etc for someone doing this as a hobby.
Chuck
I ran a $600 80 gal compressor for 5 years. I’d recommend you run multiple (free, scrapped) tanks to drop the water, instead of a high-dollar water trap. No issues for me in that regard.
I wish I would have bought a nice gun sooner. I heard a few guys saying they ‘could paint a car with any gun,’ but I disagree. Maybe back in the day, when paint was easier to shoot. Not anymore. I had a terrible time with my ghetto gun, and the little tiny fan didn’t help any either.
I opted for an Iwata LVLP, which is a SLOOOOW gun, and I did that deliberately. I didn’t want a super fast Sata, leaving me even more runs in the clear, and I didn’t want to reach the limit of my cheap compressor. Maybe this was wise, maybe not.
I just bought the 3m accuspray primer gun, and I am REALLY looking forward to using it. I think this primer gun, and a good gun from sata or iwata and you’re set.
I shoot solvent only, simply because I can’t even get water-based anything in my little old-school town.
Take time to setup a nice mixing/cleaning station. I really regret not doing this earlier. I have had a lot of supplies covered in dust, or end up digging in a bin for something while I’m rushing to get something finished. It sucks.
BUY LIGHTS! I screwed up my first complete royally due to not having enough room around the car, and not having enough light. I spent many an hour sanding runs out of that bastard….
Good luck, and keep us posted.
Congrats on stepping in on a new hobby. Auto refinishing can be an enjoyable hobby and/or a rewarding career. My suggestion would be to go spend some time at your local automotive paint supply store. If you have one in your area that is locally owned/operated, you will probably get more feedback and information than at some of the larger, national paint pushers.
Expect to spend at least $2000-$3000 for proper start up equipment that will get you off on the right foot. A compressor with significantly higher CFM rating than the guns you are using, high flow fittings and hoses, $400-$600 for a quality basecoat gun, $400-$600 for clear gun…(you may check out the TEKNA, it comes with 2 sizes for one price, saving you from having to buy separate base/clear guns). You should check the TDS of the paint you are using for tip sizes to verify what you need.
Also think about your plans for a controlled/enclosed environment in which to paint. Controlling overspray, airflow requirements, etc…Good luck!
Bobwires, If I’m understanding you correctly you use multiple air tanks to reduce the amount of water in your system? Can you explain exactly what you mean? Sounds interesting and something I might want to do. As for the lighting, I agree 100%!! You need really good lighting all around the vehicle!!!!!!! THanks! Jack
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