I have watched countless videos on painting to include every aspect.
Still, im quite not sure of all the steps I need to take.
I found an NOS tank in the original color, so that's a big one out of the way.
This is what I have planned:
Plastic fairing pieces:
Fully stripped prepped and lightly scuffed.
1. 2 coats of adhesion promoter 3 minutes apart
2. Must apply first coat of primer within 10 minutes.
3. Apply 2 coats of Upol 2253 primer in 4:1:2 ratio (as a sealer). For pieces with filled cracks, use 4:1;1 as primer filler. Consult TDS for cure time before sanding smooth with 320, then 600 grit. If sealer coat is smooth, base coat can be applied after it flashes.
4. Apply 2-3 coats of base. For metallics, 2 wet coats for coverage, then a drop coat to orient metallics and prevent mottling (blotchiness)
5. Wait about 15 minutes.
6. Apply a light coat of Spraymax 2k clear. This will prevent flow of metallics and hold them in place according to some pros.
7. Let first coat flash (7-10 minutes), then apply 2 medium to wet coats of clear.
8. Wait at least 24 hours for clear to cure.
9. Lightly Wet sand the clear with 600 grit paper, then scuff/smooth out any orange peel and shiny bits with gray scotchbrite.
10. Clean surface thoroughly with soap and water, then wax and grease remover, then 70 or 90% isopropyl alcohol.
11. Apply vinyl decals using a spray bottle with distilled water and a drop or two of dish soap to help with placement.
12. Wait at least 24-48 hours for decals to dry.
13. Thoroughly clean the piece with Sprayway.window cleaner followed by 70-90% IPA, Make sure to rub the decal surfaces to allow clear to stick.
14. Apply a very light coat of clear over the decals (from decal instructions).
12. Wait about 15 minutes, then apply Apply 2 more medium to wet coats of clear.
13. Wait at least 24 hours and inspect for orange peel and any other imperfections. If it looks great, leave as is and wait about a week or more to further harden before installing.
14. If imperfections are visible, sand clear with 1500, 2000 then 3000 grit. Wet or dry, but last step with 3000 should be dry or only slightly damp. Use DA for best results.
15. Buff out with compounding polish and pad, then use polish with fine finishing pad using a DA.
16. Do not wax for at least a couple of weeks or even months according to some.
Any corrections or adjustments to this long process would be appreciated.
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