Many years ago, I shot a lot of lacquer and enamel paint, many years ago. Having said that, I am now looking for a way to learn how to shoot the new breed of auto finishes. Does anyone know if any of the companies that manufacture auto paints offer courses or schools that would help an old painter learn to shoot the new films. Seminars would probably help also, if they offer hands on assistance. I live in the Chicago area but would be willing to travel, any ideas?

If you have shot alot of lacquer and the enamels you should do ok shooting the new paint. I use to shoot lacquer all the time until the new sytle of paint came out. The urathanes will shoot more like the enamels. One thing that you should really watch is the ratios when you mix the paint.

Far as classed, do you have any Vo-tech schools around where you live? They may have some night classes. What I would do if I were you I would go to a body shop and pickup an old fender or a hood and the buy some material and practice. I use PPG products and here in Enid, Oklahoma they have a line that is cheaper where you could do some playing around with.

If you need some more infomation you can e-mail me and I will be glad to help you as much as I can.

Good Luck
Gaylon

Gaylon..........Thank you for your reply, now I don't feel like I am completely starting over. I would like to ask some specific questions relative to primers, flash points and color coats and ratios. Although I could e-mail you, maybe it would serve many of us to get your information on the site for all of us to read. Is that all right with you? If so I'll be back to you and by the way, welcome to the club!

Russ

Here are a few painting sites that may help... Make sure to take the proper safety precautions, these Urethane and epoxy paints contain nasty stuff. 8O With that aside, enjoy...I find painting a very rewarding hobby. :-D

http://www.sharpe1.com/cgi-bin/ubb/Ultimate.cgi?action=intro

http://www.spraygundepot.com follow the links to how to videos

In ways I think the newer paints are easier to work with. You will be fine.

i think ppg offers a class. but the color is real easy to lay down. the clear is the hard part of it.

Like Howard said make sure to wear the proper saftey protection. Make sure you get a mask. I use the disposible type from 3M, I get them from the PPG shop where I buy my paint. When you are not using the mask make sure to put it into a zip lock bag where it does't get any air. When air goes thru the mask it starts to activate and will not last very long. With the new types of paint you can't smell the bad stuff. If you start to smell any paint make sure to get a new one.

The PPG dealer will have all of the literature telling you the flash time and the mixing ratios. If you are using a base coat clear coat don't put the base on too heavy, you don't need the base to shine and then just put enough on to get it to cover. On the clear I usually put 4 coats on, this will give you enough to sand and then compound.