Hi Nathan,
That is true to an extent, however primer guns are going to gum up an expensive nozzle on a clear gun, eventually. A clear coat gun requires a nozzle that is near to what the painter is comfortable spraying with as possible (approximately 1.0mm tip for the thicker clears Dupont, PPG, etc.). I used Binks, Sharpe, etc. and the best job for all around I got, until I became efficient with my work is (don't laugh) a $59.95 gun from Harbor Freight. Bicycle painting is difficult because of trying to maintain the correct flow on continual round surfaces. Keep in mind when building a booth that there are many variables when painting that one will learn from mistakes. Reading is great, but experience is the way that professional results are obtained. These painters that charge money that seems expensive, is really not a great expense. First, the materials of these days are so expensive. Second, the painters have experience that has taken them years to master. I am not trying to discourage you and your dad from painting with automotive grade paints, but practice makes perfect, is the bigger part of excellent results. My suggestion is learning to paint is great, but be patient. Wear protection for breathing and I wish you the best.
John Proch La Grange, Texas
________________________________ From: Nathan Cozzolino <cozzolino77@hotmail.com> To: classicrendezvous@bikelist.org Sent: Sun, June 6, 2010 12:02:05 AM Subject: [CR] What spray gun to go with and where to get it? Painters please weigh in.
I've read through the archives and thanks To Brian Baylis found out that the Binks #26 gun can be used to cover all the bases of bike painting. But looking for one to buy online just confused me on the matter. My dad just built a spray booth in his garage and wants to get into painting. He bought some how to dvd, but just needs to know what the proper equipment for painting bicycles is, and where to get it it. He's extremely meticulous and thorough, so I think he'll make for a great frame painter/restorer. He's taking it very seriously and wants to make a small business out of it eventually. Perhaps before long we'll have another option when it comes to a worthy frame restorer. We'll see. I would think some of the other well-known guys doing this kind of work in California could appreciate the thought of a newbie picking up a spray gun, and making their waiting lists less overwhelming. Thank you in advance for any advice, Nathan CozzolinoSan Francisco, California