I’m building a P-51 Mustang and would like to use the Testors Metalizer Spray, can anyone tell if you need an undercoat when using the Metalizer.
Thanks
Well, you don’t NEED an undercoat . . .It does help in finding the imperfections in the seams, tho.
Seriously, a thin coat of gray primer does help the metalizer grip, or for more realizm, you could use zinc chromate.
Mike
I would recommend an undercoat for the better adhesion that I figure it will provide. I like the idea of the chromate. [tup] On my current project, an F-84 Thunderjet, I first layed down a Metalizer coat of non-buffing aluminum and applied a coat of Future to seal. When I masked for the anti-glare panels, the masking tape (I was using blue painter’s tape) pulled up some of the Metalizer. Frustrated, I did another coat of Future, let it set over a couple of days, then did first the anti-glare panels then the new coating of Metalizer. This time I didn’t notice any lifting of Metalizer from areas I had to mask.
I have also had some trouble with the metalizer lifting when it is masked. I have since started painting the anti glare panels or trim colors first.
Undercoat of Future will eliminate all the problems of peeling of the Metalizer and also will make it appear shinier. You can always dull it later if you want.
B.
It is recommended to paint the areas first, then mask the pained areas and apply the metalizers. That is how I applied metalizer to my P-51 and T-6.
I used to use MM buffing and non-buffing metalizers for NMF. I ended up using MM Metalizer sealer to keep the paint from lifting. It worked well and I no longer had problems with masking the stuff. Definately use a primer because any filler will show right through. I never tried it at the time because I had never heard of it but Future would probably be a great primer for Metalizer. Very shiny and smooth, something Metalizer loves.