Just repaired my nosecone using Isopon repair kit. I've rubbed it all down and prepped it for spraying. Next I plan to spray with a filler primer then finish with the top coat. I'm planning to use spray cans. If it turns out pants I'll pay someone to spray it properly, I just thought I'd have a bash first. Is there anything I need to bear in mind before buying my spray cans?

get the highest build primer you can get , even some rubbing down of filler will show the grit marks .

personally , after ive got it to a stage where i think about spraying , i havent touched it with less than 320 grit paper.

you can get all sorts of paint in aerosols , you can even do base coat and laquer , but the surface will have to be about 600 grit finish for it to work properly .

Some useful info here on my recent post:

http://www.locostbuilders.co.uk/viewthread.php?tid=31368

I have used filler/primer and cans from Halfords.

Pat...

Don't buy the paint from Halfords! Find a local proper car paint shop many of these can make up aerosols using either the water based paint or traditiona celluose. If you are not sure if your gelcoat wil be Ok with celluose get some barcoat to use as a first primer this acts as a barrier and wil stop any wrinkling or softening of the gelcoat.
I found that Halfords paint isn't all petrol proof and will soften and dissolve if you spil petrol on it ther is ao a lot less paint in the can than the paint suppliers provide!

Caber

I plan to use paint from yacht chandlers like International. Have always believed that polyurethane paint is the stuff to use on GRP. You can get it in two pack as well, of course you will need spray equipment. Anyone used this type of paint?
Alex

One trick I have used with spray paint cans is to put them into a bucket of hot water before using them that and shake VERY well this makes the finish better and go for many thin coats rather than a few thick ones (this avoids runs ). As some one else here has said it is all about preperation so take your time and when rubbing down use a block and lots of water and rub from all directions particularly on the curves. When you think about it you will realise that the cost difference between different paints is not that much so go for quality every time

[Edited on 26/9/05 by niceperson709]

Proper preparation prevents wee poor paintwork.

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