Slick Sand question for John McGraw

studiog · 08-18-04, 11:20 PM

Hi John, After much research and debate I decided to order 2 gallons of Slick Sand as my primer surfacer of choice. Do you have any words of wisdom regarding the use of this product and would you use anything under it or over it before top coating. Thanks for any help. Other replies also welcome.

John Mcgraw · 08-19-04, 08:36 AM

Slick sand is a good product and will perform well under any type of paint top finish. Spray the coats out very wet and apply at least 3 good wet coats per application. Block the panel, and apply another set of coats if necessary. Be very careful not to over-catalyze the material, since it can set up in your gun!
I use an inexpensive Home depot gun to shoot primer with ever since I ruined a Devilbiss gun that I had owned for 20 years when some gelcoat set up in it on a hot day!
I usually get the panels perfect with 320 or 400 grit, shoot another coat, and then finish block with 600 grit before the finish coat is applied. Keep youself a can of black spray paint to mist over the primer to use as a guide coat. After just a couple of strokes of the sanding block, you will know exactly where all your high and low spots are at. The high spots will cause the black to dissapear instantly, while the low spots will keep the black paint in them until the panel is level.

Regards, John McGraw

BLACK MOON · 08-20-04, 11:55 AM

John,
I'm using 'Reface' by Upol. Any differences in finishing?
Thank you and thanks 'studiog' for asking John.

studiog · 08-20-04, 09:39 PM

Once again thanks John for the help. It is much appreciated. Black Moon, I think you and I are still running neck and neck on our projects.

BLACK MOON · 08-20-04, 10:54 PM

I don't know, I'm moving pretty slow. What are you using to block sand all those curves and bends. Until you sand one you don't realize how curvey they are. Maybe John will have some suggestions.
Thanks

John Mcgraw · 08-21-04, 12:28 AM

Black Moon,

I have a variety of blocks of all shapes and hardness. My favotite is a long block that is over a foot long and has a slightly crowned face. It is made from a firm foam, and most of the body supply houses cary them. I also use PVC pipe of several sizes with foam insulation glued to them for getting some of the tight curves. A hand file board that is flat and is 16" long, is a necessity for getting really straight lines on the sides of the car. You just use roll adhesive paper on these boards. Always sand at 45 degree angles to the length of the board to avoid lines. In other words, have the sanding board pointing straight forward, but move the board on a 45 degree angle rather tha straifgt back and forth.

Regards, John McGraw

BLACK MOON · 08-21-04, 10:08 AM

Thanks John. That helps alot. I need to pick up some different shapes.
Sal