Primer Gun Thoughts

[Murf]

Hi all, I need to purchase a primer gun and have some questions.

1. I assume I should go with a HVLP gun for less overspray. Is this correct?

2. Is a 1.7-2.0 size really needed? I want this gun to be able to spray epoxy and 2K primer without any problems. I notice that some guns aren't available with tips that large. Does that meen they wouldn't do well as a primer gun?

3. I am somewhat limited on air supply. An I right in thinking that this isn't as much of a problem when spraying primer? My reasoning is I wouldn't be trying to spray the complete car all at once.

4. If you guys have any suggestions for a gun please let me know. I would prefer something Len sells. I try to support him since this site has been so much help.

Thanks in advance, Murf

[PetesPonies]

I use a SATA knock-off primer gun. I have a 1.7 tip in it. I like that size, but it isn't absolutely needed in all primer situations. It depends on what type of primer needed. A HVLP will save you alot of material, buy that type of gun. as far as air pressure, even though my gun is supposed to use more PSI, I sometimes spray primer with as low of 20 PSI at the gun with the trigger pulled. My overspray is practically nil at that level and the smoothness is acceptable. Remember, being that this is primer, I will be sanding it afterwards.

[86camaroman]

if you are going to spray any high build primers or polyester primers you need at least a 1.7 tip i would prolly go a tad bigger

[Len]

1. I assume I should go with a HVLP gun for less overspray. Is this correct?

Yes, HVLP generates less overspray and it easier to control.

2. Is a 1.7-2.0 size really needed? I want this gun to be able to spray epoxy and 2K primer without any problems. I notice that some guns aren't available with tips that large. Does that meen they wouldn't do well as a primer gun?

Most 2K and epoxy primers can be sprayed using a 1.4 or 1.5 tip. If you're purchasing a dedicated primer gun it's nice to have other larger tips for heavier materials.

3. I am somewhat limited on air supply. An I right in thinking that this isn't as much of a problem when spraying primer? My reasoning is I wouldn't be trying to spray the complete car all at once.

Limited air isn't the a problem with primer like it is with top coats because you can stop and let the compressor catch up. If you do end up with a little texture because of the stoppage it will get sanded out anyway.

4. If you guys have any suggestions for a gun please let me know. I would prefer something Len sells. I try to support him since this site has been so much help.

It depends on the amount you want to spend. I like the DeVilbiss Finishline II and the Dura-Block 7003 but there are higher end primer guns like the Sata KLC if you need to use it on a daily basis to make a living.