Catalyst Hardener in Primer?

[matt_i]

So I've used Majic enamel hardener in rustoleum several times and like the result.

But those jobs were just color-coat right to the base metal.

I'm consdiering some upcoming jobs to use primer then color and wondered if you all put the hardener in the primer as well?

To keep the glossy smooth paint layers bonding I typically lightly scuff with 150 grit (60 if I allowed drips or runs) mineral spirit wipe, and then put on another coat. I would duplicate that practice without further guidance.

 

[Showkey]

There are catalyst primers ( usually sold as epoxy primers in auto paints etc) ........but........unless your primer specifically says add catalyst or hardener Compatible......I would not.

Or if you did add hardener to an off the shelf primer try on small patch or test panel.

 

[matt_i]

I researched the instructions for Majic paints and they state not to use catalyst hardener with the primer. So...no-va.

 

[metlmunchr]

Matt, do yourself a favor and spend 30 bucks for a gallon of wax and grease remover from an automotive paint store. Wiping down with mineral spirits can cause adhesion problems because the purity of the mineral spirits available today isn't closely controlled and it can contain oils that will contaminate an otherwise clean surface.

Also, if spraying enamel, a gallon of automotive grade enamel reducer is a good investment as compared to thinning with mineral spirits. The flash time is faster and this goes a long way toward avoiding sags and runs.

Either product will last indefinitely, so, even though both are relatively expensive as compared to spirits, in the grand scheme of things like your prep labor, the incremental cost is negligible.

 

[My Old Tools]

I added hardener to Rustoleum clean metal primer. I couldn't tell any real difference from no hardener.

 

[dcg9381]

I really like the performance of a catalytic paints, but haven't ever even considered adding a catalyst to one that hardens without one...

 

[ScottsGT]

2K primer is catalyzed as well as epoxy primers. But using a non-standard primer and catalyst could cause some issues with the top coats.