Need a how-to

[99civichic]

I managed to get ahold of some PPG one-stage automotive paint to use on my C6 Corvette. I did a quick search and I didn't really find any how-tos on prep etc. for automotive paint, I was wondering if I missed it or something...? Or if, maybe, someone of knowledge could write one up real quick please?

I had already primed the car with Krylon white primer before I knew I could get the paint. Do I need to strip that or is it okay? Do I need to use a sealer? (as I can get some of that, too) Would it be okay to clear over one-stage, is it even necessary? How much do I need to thin it to use it in an airbrush? What do I thin it with? How much hotter than nail polish does it spray? What's a worst-case scenario on damaging the body? Etc.....

Also, how big a difference does using two-stage (color/clear) paint make? I might be able to get some two-stage instead.

[Scale-Master]

You can clear over it if you want. I have shot automotive paints over Krylon primer with good results. You don't need a sealer. Follow the instructions, or mix it to the consistency of milk. You might need reducer since you are not painting a real car and the paint may be a little thick for a model. Two stage will probably be a little shinier, but there will be more paint probably too... - Mark

[99civichic]

Thanks, dude. I wasn't quite sure what I was getting myself into; I've had really good luck with nail polish, but I wasn't sure how much harder actual car paint would be to use. I think this stuff is already mixed, but I'll probably need to thin it. We've been using Duplicolor thinner with the nail polish, would that work with PPG as well?

[Scale-Master]

It might work, I usually just use lacquer thinner, if it doesn't gel up or turn to snot, it should work fine. You'll know right away if it's not going to work... - Mark