Polishing clear enamel

Hi guys,

I'd like to know if there's a rule of thumb time that I should wait before using micromesh and compound to polish a Tamiya enamel clear coat?

I've searched, but no luck with my exact question. I'm assuming it's probably at least a fortnight, but wasn't sure. Every thread I've read about enamel curing times has been in relation to putting other paints over the top, etc, so I thought there 'may' be some difference.

Any help and input appreciated.
Cheers,
M

I would wait 10 to 14 days before attempting to polish an enamel paint. It dries extremely slow.

The rule of thumb is to use your nose.

If the surface still smells like paint, the reducer is still gassing out and the paint is still "soft". If you can't smell paint, start ploishing a small, hidden portion until you're sure.

hth,
Bill

I've found enamels over TS sprays to never harden enough to allow anything other then leaving them alone..

I noted on my latest Honda build, the black enamal I used for the radiator arms was painted over TS7 racing white, and even after 6 weeks of curing I could leave a finger print and even rub the paint off with my fingers.. I touched it up, and never touched it again..

I have a Honda S2000 I built some months back, I used enamal smoke over the rear boot brake light, and even after two months it was soft, I could feel a slight tack..!!

I checked last night for the purpose of reply for the Honda rear brake light and its now feeling hard, but it's been three / four months since I built that model..

Enamels are great, but take yonks to dry.. Even longer to harden..!!

I would be VERY careful with rubbing compound etc on your enamal clear coat.. I think many on this board would recommend either TS clear or auto clear or if you want something safer acrylic clear.. I used X22 Acrylic clear, after 2 weeks it was hard, and I was able to get a VERY good shine from it.