2k Clear coat and hardener question

[Keeto]

Hi everyone,

I have what I hope is a simple question. The 2K clear coat and hardener that one can buy on Amazon for example, is that exactly the same stuff I have in my Zero Paints bottles? I'm asking, because in short, the cost of buying Zero 2k from spotmodel shipping etc is getting a bit ridiculous. If I buy "Kustom 2k clear" or "Finish-1 2k clear" from Amazon, will I get the same result as from Zero 2k? I guess at the end of the day Zero 2k clear is decanted from a large container anyway into the smaller bottles we use to be able to buy? Thanks in advance for your responses...

[stevenoble]

I've used other 2k clears and they all give similar results to Zero. I'm not saying that all 2k's are the same, but unless you're a 2k connoisseur you probably won't notice a massive difference.

[Kaj45rpm]

Why not test some locally sourced automotive 2K clear on some painted plastic spoons with spare decals applied? The thinners thin it down for use with airbrushes.

[Keeto]

Thanks guys for the responses.

Yeah, I won't see the difference that's for sure Steve, I've only just started using the stuff; as long as I can get it shiny with no or little orange peel I'm a happy chappy! Kaj45rpm, you when mean sourced do you mean just go and ask a local body shop for a little bit or how? BTW can we thin the 2k with regular Home Depot/Homebase bought lacquer thinners or what?

[nugundam93]

you use urethane thinner for 2k urethane. not sure how lacquer thinner would work with 2k urethane but i haven't tried it but i have a feeling it won't work.

[Keeto]

nugundam93, thanks! I see on Amazon, they refer to it as "reducer"....Does reducer = thinner?

[Kaj45rpm]

The Zero paints 2K kit consists of 3 bottles, clear coat, hardener and thinners so I assume the thinners are used for airbrush use as opposed to automotive use.

Maybe a local bodyshop could advise you and supply you with some or put you in touch with a supplier.

[nugundam93]

Reducer does seem like thinner to me

[cjsbosox]

You are correct. Reducer is thinner. For us, a fast reducer is best. You may clean up with any lacquer thinner to control costs. The reducer is best saved for your clear. I highly suggest you visit a local auto body supply. They will answer all your questions. And please save your money by not buying Zero clear. I spent $50 on a 2k kit and House of Kolor fast reducer just over 2 years ago. It was well spent since Ive sprayed close to 10 cars and have plenty 2k left.

[Keeto]

Thanks once again guys. I appreciate your help. I think I'll be visiting an auto body shop soon. What I did figure out about reducers today is there are slow medium and fast as cjsbosox mentioned, so that was gonna be my next question but you've answered that already! Thanks.

[John18d]

Keeto - PM me if you have any questions on the 2K systems
John