Professional Size Paint Instructions
Use this guide for professional, larger-scale paint applications where automotive urethane paint is mixed and sprayed using spray guns (gravity feed, conventional, or HVLP). These instructions cover surface preparation, priming, painting, and clear-coat application, as well as gun setup and mixing ratios.
Safety First & Conditions
- Work in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight.
- Optimal conditions: 60°F–75°F with low humidity.
- Wear respiratory protection and gloves.
- Keep out of reach of children.
Lock Seal Ring Removal (For Canned Paints)
Step 1: Use pliers or grips to pry the ring inward toward the center.
Step 2: Work around the ring until it loosens and detaches.
Step 3: Use a paint can opener to open the can.
Spray Gun Setup
Gravity Feed
Tip Size: 1.2 – 1.4mm
Conventional
Tip Size: 1.3 – 1.5mm
Air Pressure: 43-55 PSI (air inlet)
HVLP
Tip Size: 1.3 – 1.5mm
Air Pressure: 29-36 PSI (air inlet)
Refer to your spray gun manufacturer for specific settings.
Surface Preparation
Fix Rust Spots
- Address all rust areas before painting.
- Repair and seal heavily rusted areas to prevent further damage.
Sand the Surface
- Light sanding provides an even surface for paint adhesion.
- Wipe the surface to remove dust, fingerprints, wax, and grease.
- Use a solvent-based panel wipe and a clean rag.
- Allow the surface to dry completely before painting.
Primer Application
- Use a primer compatible with automotive urethane paint.
- Wear a solvent vapor-approved respirator and goggles.
- Primer seals the surface, ensuring smooth paint adhesion.
- Follow the manufacturer’s flash and dry time instructions.
Sanding After Primer
- After the primer dries, sand the surface with:
- 1000–1500 grit wet sandpaper for a smooth finish.
- Wipe the surface with a tack cloth and clean before proceeding.
Base Coat Application
- Apply 2–3 layers of paint for full coverage.
- Follow the recommended flash times between coats.
- Spray in thin, even layers using a consistent motion.
Base & Tri-Coat Application
Always perform a test spray before actual application.
For Tri-Coat Paints Only:
- Apply Layer 1 in a light coat, spraying 6”–10” from the surface.
- Flash time: 15–25 minutes.
- Apply Layer 2 using the same technique.
- Flash time: 15–30 minutes after Layer 1.
Note: Not all paints require Tri-Coat application. Check your order details for label and mid-layer codes.
Clear Coat Application
- Wait 1–2 hours after the last base coat before applying clear coat.
- Apply in thin coats to prevent drips or runs.
- Spray 2–3 coats of clear coat.
- Flash time: 5–10 minutes between coats.
- Ideal coat thickness: 15–25 microns.
Polishing & Finishing
- After the clear coat has dried, inspect the surface.
- Lightly sand any imperfections, if needed.
- Buff the vehicle to enhance gloss.
- Wait at least 72 hours before buffing and 4 days before waxing.
2K Clear Coat Application
Mixing 4:1 TAPD Clear
- Mix 4 parts TAPD-100 2K High Gloss with 1 part activator:
- TAPD-101 Medium Activator OR
- TAPD-102 Fast Activator
Pot Life @ 68°F
- 3 hours (TAPD-102 Medium)
- 2 hours (TAPD-101 Fast)
Application Guidelines
- Apply 2–3 thin coats using proper spray equipment.
- Wait 1–2 hours after the last base coat before applying clear.
Flash Time @ 68°F
- Between coats: 5–10 minutes
- Air dry to buff: 16–24 hours
- Force (bake) dry: Cool to room temperature before buffing
Cleanup Instructions
- Follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions for spray equipment.
- Use gun wash, urethane reducer, lacquer thinner, or acetone for cleanup.
- Do NOT use solvents on skin! Use an appropriate hand wash instead.
Tips for Best Results
- Work in a controlled environment with stable temperature and low humidity.
- Shake the paint can thoroughly before spraying.
- Spray 6”–8” from the surface using 50% overlapping patterns.
- Test spray on a sample surface before starting.
Safety & Storage
- Store in a cool, dry place away from heat and sunlight.
- Clean nozzles with a urethane solvent after use.
- Re-cap cans to prevent accidental discharge.
- Keep out of reach of children.
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