The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Paint and Body Shop First Time Painter: Acrylic Enamel (DAR) or Urethane (DCC)?

I'm pretty well settled on using a single stage PPG paint, because I don't like to look of BC/CC on old iron; the (good) paint store me carries PPG; and older color availability seems good.

But I'm confused as to which type is better suited to a first time painter, enamel or urethane? Which is more forgiving (spray technique, gun setup, etc.)? Easier to fix? Runs, orange peel?

Thanks,
mark.
'51 KY 3100

the urethane is more durable than the old enamels they both spray about the same and the run factor is about the same.are you using a solid color.it is easier to sand runs and orange peel out of solid colors but be careful not to burn the paint while buffing it.honestly the bc/cc is much easier to spray and much more forgiving

I have found the Delstar enamel DAR to be really good stuff. I just shot it on my 59 (fire engine red) and I also used it on my 47 cj2a. You can see the cj at:

http://home.comcast.net/~iarnstein/Latest.htm

I just updated that web page with a picture of the repainted big red as well. I used DAR on a few motorcycles.

I have also shot the urethane DCU on a custom harley that turned out very nice as well. I found the enamel easier to shoot. If you do your prep right, you won't have to touch the vehicle after you paint it (if you lay the paint on right).

As far as technique goes - put on a thin tack coat, a good second coat, and about the same for the 3rd coat which will finish the job. Follow the paint mixing instructions to the letter. The catalyized paint sets up well, and if you have to go back and fix/polish it, its not bad.