I need some clarification on how to use automotive paints on a plastic model.
I seem to recall that automotive paint is designed to adhere to the metal surface of automobiles, and as such, is not designed for plastic. In fact, automotive paint will actually eat away the plastic.
In order to successfuly paint a plastic model with automotive paint, the model should first be painted with automotive primer, which can be used on plastic without risk of damage, and then the automotive paint can be applied.
Can anyone either confirm this information, or point me in the right direction?
How to use automotive paint on plastic?
Moderators: DasPhule, Moderators
Automotive paint is a large category. They've even experimented with latex based automotive paints.
Generally autp primer s hotter than the actual paint as the primer is etching the metal surface.
But, a good model primer (even Krylon) is usually a good enough base for most auto paints.
Lacquer based paints are what you have to watch out for. They can be very hot, specially those formulated to stick to polycarb RC car bodies. But again, a decent primer (Mr Surfacer or Tamiya) will be proof against those.
Oh, and some paints don't react well to each other, causing interesting and usually unwanted texturing.
Generally autp primer s hotter than the actual paint as the primer is etching the metal surface.
But, a good model primer (even Krylon) is usually a good enough base for most auto paints.
Lacquer based paints are what you have to watch out for. They can be very hot, specially those formulated to stick to polycarb RC car bodies. But again, a decent primer (Mr Surfacer or Tamiya) will be proof against those.
Oh, and some paints don't react well to each other, causing interesting and usually unwanted texturing.
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rallymodeller
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The big "if" here is are you talking the large-quantity mix-it-yourself variety, premixed "touch-up" quantity bottles, or spray bombs? Each will have a different amount and type of solvent
Generally speaking, if you are using spray cans (the best option), the idea is to lay down a couple of thin coats of a GOOD primer, sand it smooth then put on another coat of the same primer. Then paint as normal with the auto paint. Just make sue there is no plastic showing through...
Generally speaking, if you are using spray cans (the best option), the idea is to lay down a couple of thin coats of a GOOD primer, sand it smooth then put on another coat of the same primer. Then paint as normal with the auto paint. Just make sue there is no plastic showing through...
--Jeremy
"I'm not a geek, I'm a specialist." -- Sgt. Sousuke Sagara, Full Metal Panic
"I'm not a geek, I'm a specialist." -- Sgt. Sousuke Sagara, Full Metal Panic
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Grumpy Popeye
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I find it depends on the type of paint. I've used some auto paints without primer with no problems, ohers gobbled the plastic up for lunch! 
Play it safe, use a good automotive primer. In Canada, I use the Canadian Tire grey primer, it's the best I've found to date. Its safe on every type of plastic I've used so far, it covers well, dries fast, and imperfections show up nicely. It has become my standard primer.
Play it safe, use a good automotive primer. In Canada, I use the Canadian Tire grey primer, it's the best I've found to date. Its safe on every type of plastic I've used so far, it covers well, dries fast, and imperfections show up nicely. It has become my standard primer.
The rakishly handsome artist formerly known as Darph Bobo