What percentage of "Pebble quality" Ferrari restorations use single stage paint?

Modern materials more frequently used.

Single stage, infrequent

Modern materials acceptable, water based paints also.

 

This is a good discussion and hopefully those in the know will join. I plan to go with single-stage. But, if you are thinking about a metallic color you have no choice but to apply clear coat.

john

 

we used a single stage paint on 0556(0446)MD; no buffing or polishing, either.

 

Yes, the flakes in the period metallic paints were aluminum and without the clear coat they would soon oxidize and lose their purpose.

john

 

really?

I have zero experience with original metallic paint on Ferraris from the 60s 70s etc...

but I would say almost every car was single stage in this period if not every. But... I could be always be mistaken.

 

Or are they now using 2 pack! Cars of the 70's used Acrylic Lacquer didn't they.

Here is an interesting site I found: AUTOMOTIVE PAINTING
Pete

 

You're right, clear coat is a new concept-- late 70's and the 80's is when they began to appear. I assumed it had to be a must from the beginning to keep the glitter alive.

john

 

Hi John,

I'm not sure that's correct and eagerly await correction.

I have some paint experience dating back to the later 70's and remember (rather vividly) using acrylic laquer and enamel (Dulux)- (probably still have some in the cabinet!). Back then- there were guys doing clears over color mostly for depth (more so than preservation if memory serves) and there was no shortage of single stage metalics.

For durability back then, many (using DuPont anyway) were opting for Centari with the hardener pack or even Imron (slightly later) - nast stuff with isocynates but extremely durable even without clear... would put cleared laquer to shame over time- metalic or not.

I don't seem to recall a particlular issue with metalics but I was rather green then too. Of course practices in the 60's, or even very high end restorations were beyond my experience.

Back then- unless you were into shows or very specialized work, it was mostly about productivity and the best shine with the least amount of work. Of course if you wanted perfect lines and reflections- nothing beat wet sanded/polished lacquer base/clear... it just didn't last too long in the real world without attention- (like catalyzed systems did in that era.)

I'm glad modern materials are acceptable as some of the older systems are very specialized now and while still available, are definitely not main stream. Many newer formulations are fantastic in appearance, durability and eco freindliness (comparitively speaking). The cost has also shyrocketed- I remember buying a gallon of black lacquer and the appropriate reducer for about $40. That was enough to do 2 small cars. Now- you can spend 10 times that for about 1/4 as much material to do a spot repair!