Newbie Painting with HVLP Spray Gun
Posted: Thu Dec 24, 2020 2:01 am
Hello,
I have been searching online and watching a lot of videos to try and get a straight answer. I recently inherited a 1997 Pontiac Firebird that needs a great deal of work. Having that said, the structural body of the car seems to be in excellent shape. There are no major dents, even a minor dent is hard to locate and there is no rust anywhere on the body.
Having this said, the paint has seen better days. There are places where the clearcoat has is just worn out. The car still looks good overall, but I am considering painting it. However, I have gotten a lot of varying opinions and feedback. I would have to guess this has been asked at least several times on this site already.
1.) I have a 20 Gallon Air Compressor that produces 5.0 CFM at 90 PSI and 6.0 CFM at 40 PSI. I was told that this was enough to achieve good results with most HVLP guns and tips but my tank would probably be constantly "catching up". I have also heard to simply not try to paint a vehicle with my current compressor.
2.) I do not have a garage to do this so I will be looking at doing it outside. I will also be waiting until the weather gets warmer as well. I know painting outside can create problems because of weather and mother nature but can I still achieve good results?
3.) If my compressor is good enough, or for future reference what HVLP guns are good choices? Should I get a separate gun for primer, paint and clearcoat?
4.) Can I use a rotary sander or belt sander to help sand down the remaining clearcoat and paint? What types of paper should I use?
I have a lot more to ask but I guess I will leave it at that for now. I am going to be in a pickle if my compressor is not up to the task because anyway as I only have standard power outlets in the area where I keep it. So if have to upgrade I may have to put this project on hold until I can figure out what compressor to get and how hard it will be to add in a 230v outlet or something.
I have been searching online and watching a lot of videos to try and get a straight answer. I recently inherited a 1997 Pontiac Firebird that needs a great deal of work. Having that said, the structural body of the car seems to be in excellent shape. There are no major dents, even a minor dent is hard to locate and there is no rust anywhere on the body.
Having this said, the paint has seen better days. There are places where the clearcoat has is just worn out. The car still looks good overall, but I am considering painting it. However, I have gotten a lot of varying opinions and feedback. I would have to guess this has been asked at least several times on this site already.
1.) I have a 20 Gallon Air Compressor that produces 5.0 CFM at 90 PSI and 6.0 CFM at 40 PSI. I was told that this was enough to achieve good results with most HVLP guns and tips but my tank would probably be constantly "catching up". I have also heard to simply not try to paint a vehicle with my current compressor.
2.) I do not have a garage to do this so I will be looking at doing it outside. I will also be waiting until the weather gets warmer as well. I know painting outside can create problems because of weather and mother nature but can I still achieve good results?
3.) If my compressor is good enough, or for future reference what HVLP guns are good choices? Should I get a separate gun for primer, paint and clearcoat?
4.) Can I use a rotary sander or belt sander to help sand down the remaining clearcoat and paint? What types of paper should I use?
I have a lot more to ask but I guess I will leave it at that for now. I am going to be in a pickle if my compressor is not up to the task because anyway as I only have standard power outlets in the area where I keep it. So if have to upgrade I may have to put this project on hold until I can figure out what compressor to get and how hard it will be to add in a 230v outlet or something.