Enamel paint, how many coats ?

[JohnboyLandy]

Hi All, I have just started some body work painting with Wattyl agricultural enamel, starting with the radiator surround.

I thinned the paint 4 to 1, as recommended, so the paint is quite thin and runny.

Does anyone have a view on how many coats should be required ?

Maybe it's my technique, but one coat would appear to be enough.

Any wisdom appreciated.

Thanks
John

[gromit]

Data sheet says max 25% thinners (3:1).

I've been spraying Protec alkyd enamel (camouflage green) and have used two coats. Partly to make sure I didn't miss any areas and also to give a slightly thicker coating.
Problem is it depends a lot on how heavy each coat is, with a lot of thinners it might be a thin coat otherwise it will run.
Data sheet mentions coating thickness per coat and gives a typical figure but doesn't mention how many coats.

If re-coating be careful of the times they state. Within 4 hours or after 16 for the recoat.

Wattyl also mention a Dry Add Urethane Additive to improve hard drying properties, humidity, wrinkle & solvent resistance.



Colin

[JDNSW]

Pretty much as Colin says - it depends on how thick a coat you are putting on. I did two on mine, but as far as I know, the original factory finish only had one coat!

[cjc_td5]

I assume you are spraying? I use acrylics but usually go 2x double coats to get enough paint on and a good finish.

[JohnboyLandy]

Thanks for input guys.

Cheers,
John

[JohnboyLandy]

Guys, I should have also thought to ask the following questions ..

1. How long are you waiting between coats ?
2. Are you sanding at all between coats ?

Thanks
John

[gromit]

Guys, I should have also thought to ask the following questions ..

1. How long are you waiting between coats ?
2. Are you sanding at all between coats ?

Thanks
John

With the alkyd enamel I'm using I give two coats fairly quickly, only giving it time to get touch dry between.

With a solvent based paint it will dissolve the coat underneath and get a good grip but enamel paint may need sanding which means a long time between coats.


Colin