Clearcoat painting process to minimize runs

[gchagrin]

There would seem to be an order in which to paint the sections of the parts to miniumize the "runs"

Do you paint the top section first continuing to the sides? top half and side then other top half and then sides? Sides first then top?

Many light coats on the side?

With a gravity paint gun, pls confirm pressure. I think I read 10 PSI higher and flow to 50%; what would the total PSI be 35-40?

I know about the tack coat, reducer, etc.

Just for kicks.....Is there anything to put in paint to eliminate run potential? I know there is something for fisheyes....What if you built a rack which can turn, like a rotissiere, then no section would ever be affected by gravity....any ideas

I read through all the tips sections already - thanks

 

[rex]

Nope,there's no anti run additive.There's really no set way to spray,sometimes I start from the top and work down or sometimes I do the opposite.If I'm not using any kind of cup liner system I usually spray the bottom first to reduce spitting since the cup is full.The only way to avoid runs is put it on a little thinner.Try cutting back on your fluid flow or adding a little pressure to it.

 

[gchagrin]

In your opinion, what is the best PSI, distance and fluid setting for a siphon spray gun?

thanks

 

[rex]

It really depends on the gun.The basic gun doesn't matter as much as the size of the fluid tip and aircap design.If you spread your thumb and pinky away from each other that's a good rule for distance,6-8".Pressure runs from 45-55 depending on the material and gun setup.I have no clue what to use in a siphon feed with the hi solids stuff but I'd say a 1.5 or 1.6 tip with a good cap will work well at about 45-48.I've never been able to use 50lbs with anything and keep a good patter and fluid flow(at least without having a ton of overspray).Experiment with pressure and the gun adjustments,you want maximum attomization (the smallest paint droplets) while maintaining a good pattern.