Latest test of the Rustoleum 2X (painters touch) primer was over previously painted Testors enamel. Worked fine- I had worried about compatibility but it worked.
I’ve had the best luck with the Krylon “Sandable Primer”. I like to give a model the “once over” with a very fine paper before final painting and not have to worry about the primer coming off. I’ve never had a problem with it but it’s getting a little high priced for my wallet and I’d like better control of the spray. I would like to be able to put the primer on with my AB so I’m looking around for a suitable primer that is available in a can. I’ve tried a few but they either pull off with tape when masking or just plain rub off. One of them felt sort of wet to the touch after a week and just rubbed off. I let them sit about a week before trying to pull the tape. The temp. in the room is a pretty constant 68 with a 44% humidity which shouldn’t be the problem. I think an $8 or $9 can would last a lot longer than the same priced spray can. It has to be thinned but I think we all have been there and done that before.
Jim [cptn]
Jim, where do you find it these days? I started the thread because I cannot find it in any of the places I used to get it!
Don,
It seems to me that the “Coatings” industry is going through a sea change. For instance Home Depot is phasing out all house paint that isn’t a paint plus primer as one. I personally don’t like this and think it stinks, but it must have to do with economics. Everywhere you look there is less quality and higher price. If a manufacturer can squeeze another penny out of a product per unit they will. This must be what is happening with Krylon and the situation you describe.
As far as house paint I now go to high end paint dealers like Sherwin-Williams (Who make phenomenal products) for a high cost. No matter what you’re painting a good dedicated primer dried for 24 hours, provides the best finish coat.
Don, sorry it took so long to answer. I usually get the Krylon "Sandable Primer"at one of the local hardware stores. Not all of the stores carry it. I picked up a can about 3 weeks ago and he still had a few left and said the others should have it too as he doesn’t know of any shortage. I’m still looking for some primer that comes in a regular can so I can use it in the AB without decanting. Trying one out now that only comes in white. It’s an acrylic and has to be cut with water at around 60% water(distilled) to 40% paint. I’ve tried it on a scrap car body and it went on great with 15# air in light coats. It dries to the touch in 30 min. and sets up for recoat in 1 hour. Have put blue tape strips on and removed at different times with no adverse effects. It takes Vallejo Model Air colors very well and also MM enamels. The only shortcoming I found is that it will only tolerate a very light sanding which is OK with me as that is all I do after priming. I’m trying it out on a couple of models that I am working on now to see how it stands up to the finished product. I’ll let you know how I make out.
Jim [cptn]