how many coats of clear

SuperJETT

So long and thanks for all the fish
Location
none
I did one heavy coat on my current ski and it held up great for the past 7 years, still shiny and that's with zero wax ever. Yes it sagged/ran in one spot because I was in a hurry, but it worked.

Ski before that I did 2 or 3 and it was good too.
 

DR3

Xscream Braaaap
Location
palm harbor, Fl
2 might be fine if your not going to cut and buff but i always do at least 3 (but i buff all jobs).. one tack and two heavy..maybe 4/5 coats depending on graphics load so i can block it flat with no tape lines afterwards..

i do know of a lot of shops that just do 2 and get away with it though..
 

crammit442

makin' legs
Location
here
I did one heavy coat on my current ski and it held up great for the past 7 years, still shiny and that's with zero wax ever. Yes it sagged/ran in one spot because I was in a hurry, but it worked.

Ski before that I did 2 or 3 and it was good too.

One good coat is ok, but several will give you the option to sand out and buff as needed over time.
 

WaveDemon

Not Dead - Notable Member
Location
Hell, Florida
The other question then is, do you let it completely dry in between coats or do you just let it get tacky then put another layer on?

listen to fla, he's a professional paint and body guy. he paints high end ski's too (I'm not sure if that's supposed to be public knowledge who he works with)
 

crammit442

makin' legs
Location
here
Are you using a single stage paint? If so then no clear is required.

That's correct, but if you mix clear 50/50 on the final coat it'll produce a harder gloss. Also, as long as it's not a metallic or pearl single stage, extra coats allow you room to cut and buff. No matter how good your prep, equipment, and technique is there will ALWAYS be some trash and texture. If you want it to look good sanding and buffing is mandatory IMO.
 
Do your first one or two coats light and then start building them up on the last one or two depending on how many your doing. Wait between coats until your last coat you sprayed is tacky to the touch and does not come off on your finger wet. If thats understandable? Time will very depnding on what temp.reducer you will be using as well as humidity levels and your air temp. If your in a booth its usually in the neighborhood of 10-15min between coats.

Just wanted to add: Remember good lighting is your friend when painting. It allows you to see how wet or dry you are applying from reflecting it off you job you spraying. Helps you to see any dead paint/ dull areas as your going.
 
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