Favorite Paints for Restorations

[NC Homestead]

I did a quick search of the forum and did not find any threads on this one.... What are your favorite paints ( Brands or specific lines) to use when you are doing restores. As I am just starting to get into restoring stuff I figured I would take a pole of what everyone likes. Love to find some stuff that is durable and easy to apply. Additionally if you have any experience with paints that do not require primer, and actually adhere well that is a bonus. A while back I tried a restore on an old wagon (think Radio Flyer) and did not have good luck with the Rustoleum products. The paint was not sticking to the primer. Any thoughts are welcome!

William

 

[Fretters]

I just use a synthetic enamel. 14Line is, I believe, the stuff I generally use, but any half decent enamel should be good. Never use primer personally, as I like the finish to go on thin instead of smoothing the look of the surface metal somewhat, as primer tends to do. Never had problems with paint adhesion as yet. With enamels, they also respond to warming, (either the paint itself or the workpiece), as well as thinners for improving application, so they're easy to work with. Enamels do stay somewhat soft for a while after being applied though, so if you can give the piece a week or two to cure before rough use, it helps.

 

[lilredex]

If it is a small project, I get the rattle can out. Larger projects get the gun and mixed paint. Have always had good luck with Rustoleum/Tremclad paints. I always prime any bare metal areas.

Here is an example..... a newly acquired Snap On KRA 109.

 

[zmotorsports]

PPG fan here. I use the DPLF epoxy primer, DP36 sandable primer, DCU base coat and DC2021 high solids clearcoat with DCX61 hardener.

Mike.

 

[stikman56]

I have used PPG Delstar a lot. I'm a fan of single stage paints.