Welcome to the auto paint forum! -Read First-

[mike@af]

Welcome!

Here we can/will discuss the processes, tricks/tips, and questions about painting. Here you will be able to talk with many experts on paint methods, types of paint, etc. We will discuss tricks of the trade, how to's, and answer help questions.

However, please keep all waxing/polishing in the regular Car Detailing forum. Thank you

Enjoy!

[boomertractor]

what type compressor do I need

[boomertractor]

anyone home

[mike@af]

If you use the search you can find the answer to your question. Also, give us more than two minutes to answer a question.

[neilslade]

To the above question: "What type of compressor do I need?"

Answer- Automotive paint generally sprays on a 30-40 psi. So, obviously your compressor needs to be able to make that- and most do, even small ones.

What is more important is that your HVLP gun must match the compressor-- and you can get great guns for between $50 and $75 that will work with a compressor putting out 6 cfm (cubic feet per minute) Guns are rated from 5 to 15 cfm, but any gun rated 8 or 9 cfm or below will work with a compressor making 6 cfm at 40 psi.

Got that?

Okay- so, a good place to get a compressor that will run a typical HVLP gun rated at 9 cfm and under can be found at Harbor Freight, usually around 15 - 20 gallons, and under $200. You can get a Husky gun at Home Depot or a Vapor gun online, or get a gun again at Harbor.

A tank that is at least 15 gallons will do a great job, although you could get by with a smaller tank.

Neil Slade