where to buy paint?

[left4dawn]

I am thinking of painting the kart i have right now.is there certain types of paint i should buy, or can i just go out to a home depot or lowes, and basically choose what color i want? or should i go to a painters store, like a sherman williams?

sorry for all the newb questions

 

[OzFab]

You can just use cheap & nasty rattle cans but, as the saying goes, you get what you pay for.

Most members will suggest Rustoleum or POR15; they're a bit more expensive but worth it.

Do you have a compressor, spray gun & the knowledge/experience to use them?

 

[left4dawn]

I do have a compressor and spray gun and a bit of experience. i just dont know what type of paint i should use. not so much what brand, but what kind, oil based, latex etc.

could i pick up some paint from a place like lowes or home depot and use that? dont feel like using rattle cans

 

[Blazkowiez]

Rustoleum has been my hero over the years. Love it so much.

 

[Timtreo]

Definitely not latex paint, that is generally used for interior walls in your house and whatnot. I would say an oil based enamel paint with a primer coat or two first. You could then spray on a clear coat when your done to really make it shine if you want. Other people may know of a better paint. If you want to use your spray gun you can easily get automotive paint by the gallon, google auto paint in your area.

 

[r_chez_08]

Hammerite paint works pretty well, or any enamel paint that says it will work on exterior metal surfaces. I am using some paint called 'teamac metalcote plant enamel' on my kart.
If you can get hold of some, a two part epoxy works amazingly.
Please remember- prep is very important for proper paint adhesion. Strip off any old paint and rust, then remove any oil etc with a solvent such as xylene.

 

[fowler]

Galvin or kill rust
From a rattle can
Dirt cheap and does a good job
Decent finish too

But the color range is rust red or rust red

 

[qtband]

If you want to use an automotive paint, use a single stage. That's what it's referred to...single stage. It needs a catalyst mixed with it. The auto paint store will tell you the correct ratio to mix. Single stage auto paints require no clear coat and are easy to spray and come out shiny and wet looking. You can get any color you desire. Depending on the kart, a pint should do. As was said earlier, preparation is everything. The last step before painting is a wipe down with a degreaser, then no more touching it! Spray it and walk away until it's dry.

 

[OzFab]

The last step before painting is a wipe down with a degreaser (or lacquer thinner), then no more touching it! Spray it and walk away until it's dry.

Close but no cigar. Some degreasers leave a film behind & thinners may eat into the primer; use wax & grease remover on a clean rag.

I will also state that preparation is everything, more important than the paint itself. Without good prep, the paint may as well not be there.

If you need prepping tips just ask

 

[qtband]

Opps. Edited it.

 

[Iron John]

If you want something a little better than Rustoleum, but still inexpensive, buy Valspar. Tractor Supply and others have it. Add some of their drying agent, and you will be all set.