Replies

1. 
   Hastings | Apr 01, 2008 09:18pm | #1

   Allen:

   One expert finisher on Knots routinely suggests the value in learning to use spray guns. I started with a very basic gun (Leonardo) recommended to me by the folks at Toolworld. I started with lacquer and after a lot of practice I became more proficient.

   I recently upgraded to better quality gun (Iwata LPH 440) and I couldn't believe the difference. It lays down such a nice even finish and has reduced my finishing time substantially. I have also used CAB acrylic and two-part automotive paints (can't beat the finish and durability for external use).

   I cannot speak highly enough about the Iwata, though I'm glad I didn't start with it - the Leonardo forced me to learn a lot. A 30 gallon compressor 6.8 CFM @40 psi is sufficient for me though would not be enough if you were going to spray day in and day out.

   Also learned that finding the right mix of additives is very important. I usually add 3% Butyl Cellusolve to retard catalyzed lacquer and CAB.

   Finally look into the 3M Paint Preparation System - it saves a whole lot of time with clean up and makes it easy to change materials.

   Good luck!

   Hastings

1. 
   AlPal | Apr 02, 2008 05:34pm | #4

   Thanks for the input.

   Allen

2. 
   woodsmithy | Apr 01, 2008 11:14pm | #2

   Allen-

   I have tried a lot of different HVLP guns for spraying lacquer.  I used gravity feed and pressure cup guns with compressed air.  I even bought a very expensive turbine system, which was clumsy, hard to clean and the over spray was not that much less then the cheaper guns I used.

    I finally followed a professionals advice and bought a 2 quart remote pressure pot and gun for lacquer.  What a difference that made! I can do 3-4 coats in a afternoon.  Its easy to get inside cabinets and you don't have to worry about which way you hold your gun.  I set the press pot at 5-6 PSI and the over-spray is minimal.  There are too many benefits to this system to put in a brief statement.  Trust the professionals.  Save your self many years of spraying frustration and get a pressure pot.

   See  Jeff Jewitt's site http://www.homesteadfinishing.com/index.html has a system very similar to mine QS-64ES/HVLP FZ/SP on sale for $650.  Don't be overly concerned above the CFM or air compressor requirements.  Unless your doing huge surfaces like a car or house, a small compressor with a 10 gal tank can usally keep up.

   I still use my gravity feed gun with a 3M PPS system (cup) for staining, some shellac sealing, and to top coat small jobs.  I just put up with the over spray to save a little set-up/clean-up time. Rockler has started stocking them as EZ-Clean  http://www.rockler.com/EZ-Clean/index.cfm?bnr=1 .

   
   

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   Edited 4/1/2008 4:28 pm ET by Woodsmithy

1. 
   AlPal | Apr 02, 2008 05:35pm | #5

   Thanks for your response,

   Allen

3. 
   johnmcm | Apr 02, 2008 12:33am | #3

   Earlex gets a great video review here, and it's cheap

   http://thewoodwhisperer.com/

   Cheers
   John

1. 
   AlPal | Apr 02, 2008 05:35pm | #6

   Thanks for the recommendation,

   Allen