Alcad Advice

Hey all. I’m a little hesitant trying my SNJ metal finish (Never used it but the bottles are pretty.) and have heard tale of Alcad being a little better. I haven’t ordered any yet, but was wondering if there was anyone who could give me a little info on Alcad.

-As I understand it I need to use black as a primer (Same with SNJ?).

-Does it require buffering?

-Can it be masked? Can it be washed over?

-Is it Hot?

-Does it need sealant (Like MM metalizer)?

-Drying time?

-Does it need to be thinned? And how do I clean up after using?

-Why did I ever decide to try doing Late WWII and Korea kits with metal finishes?

-I mean seriously, what was I thinking?

Only the really shiny ones need the black primer to be most effective, you can prime with any color for the other ‘colors’. I’ve used Tamiya white primer with good results. No buffing needed Can be masked and washed over - I’ve use Tamiya tape, painters tape, and oil washes. Its hot, thus the required primer. No sealant needed. I let my dry overnight usually, but I’ve masked only after a few hours with no problem. You can handle it only after a few minutes. No thining needed, you will need lacquer thinner to clean up. I haven’t been able to answer that last one myself!

To answer your questions:

SnJ is no longer in production. Some colors in the Alclad line require a black or high gloss primer. You don’t have to use the Alclad primer.

No.

Yes. Yes.

Yes, it is an aggressive lacquer.

No.

Very short.

No. Use MEK or lacquer thinner for cleaning ONLY.

Because they look neat. They are historically correct. You love challenges. You will meet a tall, dark stranger…

I have no recollection of that at this time. Besides, you are not cleared for that information… [:P]

Go to the Alclad site and read the info there.

Thanks all. I’ll place an order with GreatModels and give it a shot.