I've got a vehicle that I have applied a Urethane 2k primer to. I'm curious to know that after it is final sanded if there's a time window as to which I have to apply the base coat and clear coat. I don't want to rush the sanding, masking and garage booth prep if I don't have to. Thanks, Jason

 

Don't think there is a set "timing" window between final sand and paint application... IMHO, the longer this time period is, the more time there is for contamination (finger prints, dust, etc)... Contamination can happen before you do the final sanding, but why risk it... The pros will chime in if there are other concerns... I like "longer" cure times on bodywork and primer... These new formulas don't shrink as much as the products back in the 80s, but I still like to give them the proper amount of time to do their thing...

Rogman

 

as long as you use a sealer you will be ok. a quick scuff with red scotchbrite before sealer will help.

 

having a surface "open-cut" due to sanding makes it accept contaminates and allows them to cling due to the surface being roughened.

This is easily handled by making a VERY GOOD CONSCIENCE EFFORT while wiping the car down prior to masking...and after masking the cat off.

For what it is worth: Because I am so picky and I try to take potential problems "out of the equation". when I am doing my final wipe and getting "into the zone". I wet a wiper with my wax and grease remover and use it on ONE PANEL (such as the hood). I will wet 1/4 of the hood and with two or three CLEAN wipers...I COMPLETELY dry it off. I then wet out the next 1/4 of the hood and dry it with the same wipers until dry. I then throw those wipers I used to dry the finish in a bucket and use them in the future for whatever I can use them on so not to waste them....BUT...I do not sue them for wiping a surface for paint. I them slightly wet out my wiper again...and do the other side of the hood the same way...BUT I now use three NEW CLEAN wipers. Once the hood is done. I throw ALL wipers in the bucket and start fresh on the next panel...such as the door. The reason being...I do not want any possible wicked grease, silicone or whatever to get spread around the entire sanded primer surface and cause for problems....and the cost of wiper is so minute versus a paint problem will make you kick yourself in the backside if you get CHEAP and not invest in good wipers and USE THEM.

This "wiping down time" is the time that you REALLY need to slow down and focus and NOT be in a hurry. I often times have to "shake it off" and slow down because I am also only human and I can not wait to see my hard work finally painted.



DUB