Opinions needed for Iwata airbrush and compressor

I am considering the Eclipse BS, CS and the Iwata Smart Jet compressor. From the research I did on here, Iwata seems to make decent products. One thing that I have not be able to decide on is whether I would need the larger cup on the CS. I will use it mainly for building car models in 1/24 scale, but I am also looking forward in doing some in larger scale as well.

People are generally very happy with the Smart Jet, but some say they are not happy with the bleed valve air regulator and switch to a "real" pressure regulator to allow easier pressure adjustment. Is this an easy mod? Have anyone done something like this to their Smart Jet?

Finally, I would appreciate if anyone in Toronto can point me out in where I may be able to find Iwata compressors. I tried Currys but only carry their airbrushes.

Ben L.
I use the SmartJet compressor and think it is great, I don't think there would be any major problem switching the pressure regulator/water trap unit that comes with the compressor, since it is an in-line type unit that is attached at the end of one hose prior to screwing the airbrush hose to the opposite side of the regulator. Since the compressor has its own shut off, I think it should work fine with any other regulator, I have yet to make this switch myself, although it has crossed my mind.

I doubt that ramble is any help to you, but either way, I think you could switch it out.
Ray

Ben,

I'm in the same situation about getting a Gravity Feed Airbrush. I think the CS cup should be big enough to handle any 1/24 scale body as well maybe even bigger.

If your really not sure, why not get a Siphon Feed?

Also did u check out the Iwata Revolutions? Cheaper! and i think it has everything i need, it just doesn't do as fine lines as the eclipses.

Check out art supply stores, they'll have the best prices. Make sure they're close to what www.dixieart.com sells them for.. cuz i know a few places out here that jack up the prices.

djmr2 - I agree the CS would be sufficient for larger scale models, it's the BS that I am unsure about. I want to get the BS because it is slightly more compact, but worried whether the 1/16 oz. cup may be a bit small. I know I sounded a little confusing in my initial post, but please bear with me as I have inhaled a little too much primer in these couple days. :D I am thinking of buying these tools from dixieart.com instead of buying local since the prices are cheaper. I think I read somewhere that Iwata made their airbrushes in the USA so that means I don't have to pay any duty when importing one into Canada.

freakray - So the pressure regulator and water trap on the Smart Jet a combo unit? If I replace the pressure regulator, where would I put the water trap? I haven't used a compressor before (other than the ones for bicycle tires) so I am still a little confused. Don't forget to post pics when you are ready to do the swap. :D

Ben

the BS looks really small.. probably only want to use it for detailing..

get the CS so u can do full bodies also..


Iwata brushes are made in japan! so there might be some duty..

good luck

Thanks for the heads up djmr2. In that case I may just get it from a local arts supply store since it is only $40 CAD more expensive than Dixie Art, besides they only have the CS in stock. Including duty, the duty would not be very significant. Do you happen to know where the Smart Jet is made in? Care to check yours freakray?

I have an Iwata Eclipse siphon feed, and i love it. It's easy to clean, and it has worked very well for me (it's the 5th airbrush i've owned to date (2 paasche, and 2 Azteks).

I recommend a siphon feed instead of a gravity feed because you can be a little more 'harsh' with the airbursh, and not worry about the paint coming out of the cup. You can turn the siphon feed upside down, sideways, and you don't have to worry about the paint coming out. Not to mention being able to use more paint at a time, without having to refill the cup.

Plus, you can buy these generic bottles (that are actually paint squirt bottles) that fit the itwata airbrush, and they are only $.50 each.

Beats the hell out of the $10 it costs for iwata brand paint bottles.

Just pick yourself up a gallon of laquer thinner for easy (and cheap) cleanup, get a package of pipe cleaners to clean out the siphon hose, and remember to remove and clean the needle with laquer thinner when you are done painting for the day.

Even if you are using Tamiya Acrylics, Laquer thinner is good for the final cleanup.

Thanks for the tip NRT, I didn't know I could use Laquer thinner for the Tamiya acrylic paints. I was just asking that question in another thread.

yeap.. don't thin it with laquer thinner though :)

just use it for cleanup.

I'll usually clean up with soapy water, then do a final spray with some laquer thinner when i'm done for the day.

Actually, thinning tamiya acrylics with lacquer thinner gives a better adhesion and drying time :)