When do you set compressor PSI?

[SteveK2003]

I was fiddling with my new Iwata airbrush last night, and I realized that I didn't know how/when to set the PSI output of the compressor. Until now almost all of my airbrushing was Parma Faskolor on Lexan R/C bodies, which calls for 30+ psi. My little Testors compressor only puts out about 25 psi, so I just left the regular wide open for spraying.

Now that I need to reduce the pressure, I'm not exactly positive when to adjust the regulator: Do I do it when the airbrush is spraying or when it is 'closed'? Pressure usually drops like 8-10 psi after I start spraying.

[Vric]

Good compressor shouldn't drop in pressure like that (unless you have no tank)

anyway, adjust it when you are spraying paint on a paper. you will have perfect adjustment.

[freakray]

Steve, like Eric said, you adjust the pressure before you spray the part but after you have the paint in the airbrush.

[SteveK2003]

OK, so adjust the pressure when spraying whatever medium you will be using, got it.

This compressor is a cheap little Testors, the next step up from the Ice Blue one. I do have a garage compressor with a tank that I have been meaning to set up for some time, just haven't gotten around with it.

BTW- Did you guys know the Medea paint included with some of the Iwata airbrushes sucks when you spray it on plastic?