Replies

1. 
   simonstl | Mar 03, 2003 07:07pm | #1

   I just noticed that Rockler has a $99 HVLP system on the back of their latest catalog, but have no idea if it's any good. I'd thought about a $299 Wagner system before, and every now and then a conversion system (Asturo?). For now, I'm still brushing and rubbing on finishes.

   The newish Rockler is here. Looks pretty, uh, gray. Not much detail there, available in April.

1. 
   KraigY | Mar 03, 2003 11:11pm | #2

   SimonStl-

   Thanks for the information.  The Rockler item looks suspiciously like item #44677 that I came across while perusing the Harbor Freight website.  I am not sure if HF is starting to carry better stuff or if Rockler is slipping a bit.  Either way may be worth a try -nothing ventured-nothing gained and I can always send it back. 

   btw, I too would most likely remain a brush and rag guy if it was not for all the cabinetry work my wife has in store for me!

   Thanks again for help-

   Doc in CCA

1. 
   Mach70 | Mar 04, 2003 01:55am | #3

   I'd bet it's the same system. Taiwan will sell to just about ANYone!

   I've seen it for $65.00 at HF and if I can find my flyer I plan to order one & give it a try. Should get it in about 3 weeks via their famously slow shipping.

1. 
   KraigY | Mar 04, 2003 03:07am | #5

   I suspect you are absolutely right.  And I have experienced HF's slow shipping, in fact, I passed nearly an entire winter in my western Washington garage/shop freezing half to death while waiting for their propane furnace to arrive.

   Anyway, thanks for the reply and hope it works out.

2. 
   Paul_Snyder | Mar 04, 2003 02:06am | #4

   Doc - do have have a compressor? If so, how many CFM does it supply?

   If you don't have a compressor, are you considering buying one?

   With a compressor, even a pretty small one, you can get an inexpensive spray gun that will do a fine job. There are HVLP/LVLP conversion spray guns in the $100 (+/-) range that spray well.

   Paul

   F'burg, VA

1. 
   KraigY | Mar 04, 2003 03:14am | #6

   Paul S

   No, I do not have a compressor.  I have been resisting the urge to purchase one in every way possible for one simple reason- I will need to completely re-outfit my shop with new air tools to go with it!  Let's see, a brad nailer, a few sanders...well you get the idea.

   In all seriousness, I have been scanning the classifieds with this purchase in mind but have yet to come across anything smaller than the massive industrial-sized units.  I am going to keep my eyes open though and in the mean time consider other options that might fit the bill.

   Thanks a million for the reply-

   Doc in CCA

1. 
   Byron | Mar 04, 2003 09:39pm | #7

   Doc,

   If you end up purchasing a decent compressor, get in contact with Jeff Jewitt at homesteadfinishing.com  He can tell you all you want to know and some of the stuff you didn't want to know about HVLP systems.  He also sells HVLP guns and outfits.  I purchased a Walcom 9010 gun (kind of pricey) from him and have had great success with it.  Good luck.

   Bmit

1. 
   KraigY | Mar 04, 2003 10:00pm | #8

   Thanks bmit

   I would definitely consult J. Jewitt in the event.  I have purchased the vast majority of my finishing supplies from him and have been very pleased in every respect.  It is becoming increasingly clear that I need to bight the bullet and invest in a compressor of some sort.

   Thanks again for the advice-

   Doc in CCA

1. 
   Sancho | Mar 04, 2003 10:27pm | #9

   I concurr with doc on contacting Jeff jewitt. If your gonna go with spray equipment and have a compressor go with a conversion gun (one that uses compressed air ILO a turbine driven system) recommend buying a decent gun. Like one of Jeffs walcom for example or a accuspray. because with a cheaper gun what you'll be saving in finishing time you'll be spending in sanding. I went from a cheaper gun to a more expensive unit (it was only about 100 bucks more) but what a different it makes. I love using it. I dont even have to fiish sand the final coat. 

   Darkworks:  We support the US military "We kick your #### and take your gas"

2. 
   rwk47 | Mar 05, 2003 07:01am | #10

   HD has a 5hp 13 gal cambell hausfeld for under $200.  I use it and it works fine.

3. 
   Clay | Mar 06, 2003 01:48am | #11

   Check with rental yards or paint stores that also rent equipment.  We have them here in Saint Louis.  I have an AccuSpray unit, which is one of the most expensive units available, and I think, well worth the investment.  I would rather see you rent a good unit than try to use a cheap and probably poor quality unit.

1. 
   KraigY | Mar 06, 2003 06:07pm | #12

   Thanks for the good advice Clay.  Additionally, I know that some of those places occasionally turn over their stock and it is possible to get a pretty good deal on used equipment. 

   Thanks again,

   Doc in CCA