I'm looking for a spray gun that can spray a nice finish using automotive style paints. My compressor is 15gal DeWalt, 5.4cfm at 90PSI. I probably don't need top of the line, but can't stand junk tools, so will spend a bit extra to get something that works and will last. Made in USA is a big plus.

Thanks,
Mike

Start with a good inline filter to remove moisture and dirt.

Binks or DeVilbiss

I used a Harbor Freight gun that worked fairly well. As mentioned, dirt and moisture are the main issues to look out for. Drain the compressor thorougly and install a decent size filter/water separator.

If you could run the air line through 20' or more of copper pipe, and put the filter at the end, that would help remove the moisture.

For your projects, I suspect using a sandblaster to clean and prep the metal would be very helpful. Automotive paints are not "surface tolerant".

If you cannot sandblast, this system works well:
Wire brush and use engine degreaser, plus a hot water rinse. Do this 1-3 times, depending. In a low cost gun, put in a two part epoxy primer that is surface tolerant. Devoe 235 Bar-Rust is ideal.

You would have to thin the epoxy, which causes the top coat to lose luster. What works better is to mix the paint in a paper container, and heat it in a microwave for 5-15 seconds depending on volume. Immediately put that in the gun and spray. You have about 2 minutes of working time.

Later or the next day, spray on a coat of LPU or automotive style paints. On the following day spray on a second application of LPU.

The waiting time is to allow the thinners to evaporate. The first top coat will lose it's shine, but the second coat applied the next day will stick well and look excellent.

quote:

Originally posted by aileron:
Binks or DeVilbiss

This,all you need to know.

Watch some of this guy's videos Paint Society. He reviews lots of paint guns and makes recommendations on a number of them. I've found his videos very informative.

DeVilbiss Tekna. Best bang for the buck as far as professional grade spray guns.

Thanks guys. Looks like some good options in the DeVilbiss line. If I'm reading it correctly, their Finish Line series is kind of a serious hobbiest line and the Tekna is the start of the pro.

Any thoughts on how I can determine if my 5.4cfm@90psi compressor can maintain 13cfm@23psi? I haven't found any conversion factors online.

Also, what's your preferred brand of paints?

I can tell you from experience bad things happen when taking a DeVilbiss Tekna through TSA, and when being asked what it was and replying "a spray gun" ...

quote:

Originally posted by 45 Cal:

quote:

Originally posted by aileron:
Binks or DeVilbiss

This,all you need to know.

Yup.

quote:

Originally posted by LS1 GTO:

quote:

Originally posted by 45 Cal:

quote:

Originally posted by aileron:
Binks or DeVilbiss

This,all you need to know.

Yup.

Well, there is a lot I need to know and learn, but I will stick to those brands as a starting point. I'm trying to sort through the different models, evaluate compressor needs, select user friendly paints and set up some type of small "spray booth". Probably a repurposed tent for now.

I like learning new things and skills, so don't mind messing up a few projects.