SECTION 1-EPU

(1) It is always better to have adequate supplies. Not having adequate supplies, in the middle of an application process can cause serious re-coat problems.  Variations from these estimates are not uncommon. 

(2) All X-otic Colours Products, Product Lines or Colour Series use a 5-digit number. The first 2-digits are referred to as the product pre-fix number. This 2-digit number can be used to identify a product line or colour series. 

(3) Any of X-otic Colours Epoxee Primer (Part A) requires the corresponding Epoxee Primer Catalyst (Part B) 

(C) Requires Urethane Catalyst product number 40-100. One 8 oz. can (1/2 pt.) catalyst per 23 oz. quart container.  The 23 oz. quart allows for direct addition of tints and catalyst to the quart container. This avoids common mixing errors. 

(4) Graphic Applications require Protective/ Bonding/ & Jammin’ Cleer product number 34-200.   If a complete series of basecoat applications cannot be applied within all recoat windows, the application of Product number 34-200 would be required BEFORE any recoat windows have expired.  Always use fast reducer, product number 50-111 with this product.

SECTION 2-PPD

Overview:

Following the steps outlined below will provide a surface that is well prepared and ready to accept X-otic Colours Epoxee Primer.   The colour of the X-otic Colours Primer you apply will be determined by the predominant basecoat color that you select.  For additional information on primer selection refer to Primer Coat Application Directions, Section 3-PCD.

In our opinion, it is always best to remove existing finishes to the bare substrate or O.E.M. primer. This more extensive process will remove any questions regarding the suitability of an existing finish to accept primer.

Preparing the Object for Primer:

1.       Remove all contaminants such as grease, tar, and wax from surfaces that are to be prepared for primer.  Use only suitable liquid cleaners. If you sand first, the contaminants will move deeper into the surface to be primed. Ask your jobber for their liquid cleaner recommendation.

2.       Evaluate the condition of existing coatings.

          a.       If in poor or failing condition, remove the existing finish to the base substrate or O.E.M. primer. 

          b.       An O.E.M. finish in sound condition, uniform thickness, not exceeding 7 to 8 mils can be prepared using 400 grit wet or 320 dry sandpaper.  We suggest wet sanding throughout your project. 

Note: If other than an O.E.M. finish, we recommend stripping to the bare substrate using liquid strippers, media blasting, power tools, etc. 

            c.      If bodywork or repairs are required, complete your repairs. Use methods that are suitable for a first class custom paint job. 

Note:  It is imperative that you use quality plastic fillers and glazes that require a hardener! 

3.       Determine the composition of the object to be painted. Prepare as recommended. 

          a.       Bare aluminum should be lightly sanded with 320 grit dry sandpaper.  After sanding, use a 3-M Red Scotch-Brite Scuff Padâ over the entire surface and especially in those areas that are difficult to sand.  Solvent wash the object using X-otic Colours Epoxee Reducer, product number 54-100. 

          b.       Fiberglass, if new, will require an aggressive soap and water washing with a stiff brush. Then, rinse and dry. Follow by a solvent wash using X-otic Colours Epoxee Reducer, product number 54-100. Finally, complete a thorough sanding using 180 grit dry sandpaper. Leave no shine. The entire object must be dull. Final wash with a clean rinsing and non-film forming dish washing liquid. Then rinse, and dry. 

          c.       Bare steel should be solvent cleaned using X-otic Colours Epoxee Reducer product 54-100. Be certain all oil is removed before sanding commences. D.A. sand using 80 to 180 grit sandpaper. Final wash with X-otic Colours Epoxee Reducer.

          d.       Other Metals: Perform adhesion test as outlined in (e-ii) below.

          e.       Plastics: 

                              i.        Epoxee primer will adhere to many new and previously coated plastics that have been stripped bare. An adhesion test, as outlined in step e. ii., should first be performed. O.E.M. finish coated plastic parts in good condition may be prepared in accordance with step 2b above.

SECTION 3-PCD

Overview:

These directions are provided to assist you with the proper application of your primer coats. Following these directions will yield excellent results. If presented with an unanticipated problem during primer application and sanding, obtain advice from your jobber or those with a greater level of expertise. Do not take shortcuts!  Your primer coat application is the foundation for your basecoat and additional topcoats. A well-prepared primer foundation is essential for successful custom painting projects.

All recommendations are based on minimum shop temperatures of 70º F.  Re-coat times can be dramatically affected by temperature. Lower temperatures will create longer cure and dry times. Higher temperatures will shorten cure and dry times.

Basecoat colour will determine which of our primer colours you will be using. The entire object must be primed with one uniform primer colour.  Our Epoxee Primers do not require the application of a sealer prior to Basecoat applications. Our Epoxee Primers will save you time and money.

Considerations:

The colour selection of your primer will usually depend on the predominant colour of your basecoat. The following are considerations and are not a rule because of the unlimited variables in Basecoat colour selection. Your jobber can assist you in making the correct primer colour selection.   

Sparklin’ Metallic Basecoat colour series pre-fix number 08, Sparklee Silver Metallic Basecoat product number 08-100, our lighter coloured Pearl Basecoats, colour series pre-fix numbers 76, 77, 79, or any of our lighter Solid Coloured Basecoats5 use X-otic Colours White Epoxee Primer, product number 01-100. When a dark colour selection has been made in one of the above categories, you may wish to select our Black Epoxee Primer, product number 01-200. This will provide faster basecoat coverage. Some custom painters select our Black Epoxee Primer or our tintable Epoxee Primer with Pearl Basecoats to achieve different effects.

If you have selected one of our Mirage Pearl Basecoats, product pre-fix number 14, or one of our Mirage Imagin’ Basecoats, product pre-fix number 20, Pearl Imagin’ Basecoat product pre-fix number 21, or a very dark or Black Basecoat, you will need our Black Epoxee Primer, product number 01-200.

Tintable Primer product number 01-300 may be used for faster Basecoat coverage and to more closely resemble Basecoat colour. In the event of a rock chip or scratch, the damage will be less obvious using a Tintable Primer.  Your jobber will provide a tinted primer in the same colour family as your Basecoat.

Preparation:

Important Safety Note: Wear correct safety equipment: respirator, goggles, gloves, painters suit, and a properly fitted NIOSH approved respirator.

1. The surface to be primed should have been prepared according to the specifications as outlined in the Project Preparation Directions, Section 2-PPD.

2. If the surface to be primed has become re-contaminated by dust, dirt, fingerprints, etc., solvent wash with X-otic Colours Epoxee Reducer product number 54-100. Dry, using clean lint free absorbents.

3. Allocate a sufficient block of time to apply all necessary primer coats.

4. To prevent body oil transfer from hands, wear lint free gloves whenever possible. Do not touch objects to be painted with bare hands or skin.

Mixing:

X-otic Colours Epoxee Primers are based on a two-component system.  Shake and stir each component separately and aggressively before combining. By volume, measure one part Epoxee Primer (Part A) and combine with one measured part Epoxee Primer Catalyst (Part B). In other words, combine at a 1-to-1 ratio by volume. 

Then, stir or shake this mixture aggressively. Problems with two part primers are almost always attributed to improper mixing, improper mixing ratios, or lack of aggressive shaking and stirring. This mixture requires no induction time. Always measure!

For maximum film build and filling do not reduce. If reduction is necessary, reduce 10% with Epoxee Reducer, product number 54-100.

Filter:

Strain the primer mixture into gun cup using a fine mesh cone strainer.

Test Spray:

Test spray on a scrap item to adjust air pressure, fan, and paint flow to suit the spray equipment being used. You will need a wide fan along with a flow that will wet the surface. Maintain a gun distance of approximately 6 inches. 

A mock simulation of the primer coat application is a good idea.  The simulation of any application sequence in your custom painting project will yield better results. 

We suggest you save this scrap item for additional test spraying of Basecoat and all topcoat applications. This panel should also be used as an indicator of potential bleeding of Basecoats or Candee Mid-Coats when artistic application coats are planned. This issue is addressed in detail in Product Application Directions, Sections 4-BCJD and 5-PBJD.

Application Directions:

Beginning with your first primer coat application and all successive primer coats, perfect your spraying overlap pattern of 50%. Keep the gun a consistent distance from the object — approximately 6 inches. Keep the gun parallel to the surface of the object. 

Pay close attention to contours and areas where primer may accumulate or run. Paying attention to these potential problem areas, at this time, will provide you with important information that will assist you in better application of your Basecoats and topcoats when they are applied. 

Do not section off large objects, stopping and starting the gun. Keep the trigger pulled and walk the distance of the object to maintain uniform film thickness. Starting and stopping the gun typically means there will be variations in coverage. Now is the time to perfect application techniques.  When you move to later applications you will have better results — especially with Candee Mid-Coat applications where uniform coverage is essential. 

Apply two wet coats over all repair areas. Then, apply 3 to 4 wet coats over the entire object. Each coat in the last area sprayed should have “flashed off” all solvent and appear dull before applying your nextcoat.  Monitor each coat closely.  When applying wet heavy build coats, allow a minimum “flash off” time of 30 minutes. Maximum re-coat window is one hour. Less time will be needed on lighter coats. We do not recommend application in temperatures below 68°F. 

Note: When spraying over a properly prepared O.E.M. finish, apply one light bond coat (tack coat), followed by one or two medium wet coats. Allow all solvent to “flash off” between coats.

Important Reminder:  You will be putting on multiple coats of primer with a maximum re-coat window between coats of sixty minutes at 68° F.  Be certain you have allocated sufficient time to apply all primer coats. To maintain maximum merging of coats, all coats must take place within the specified re-coat windows. Never apply this product wet-on-wet.

Curing:

Minimum cure time: 15 hours at 70ºF. We recommend 24 hours at 70ºF for easiest sanding. X-otic Colours Epoxee Primers may be force cured at 140°F for 45 minutes.

Sanding Guide Coat:

The sanding guide coat may be applied before or after curing. The sanding guide coat is a spray application of a contrasting lacquer primer colour. Your jobber will furnish this product. It is sprayed as a dusting coat that will lightly cover the primer surface. As you begin sanding, the guide coat will reveal any deep sand scratches, low spots, and other imperfections in the primer coat. The guide coat will help minimize the amount of primer removed by sanding and shorten the time required to sand.

Note: The guide coat must be completely removed before topcoat applications.

Sanding:

We recommend wet sanding with 400 grit wet/dry sandpaper. Or, sand with 240 to 400 grit dry. Use a small amount of non-filming dishwashing liquid added to your water. This will minimize transfer of body oils during sanding.  Wet sanding will also help keep sandpaper from loading and the sandpaper will better conform to the contours of the object. 

Use your sanding guide coat to reveal areas where additional spot applications of primer may be necessary. Sanding may also reveal pinholes, low spots, and deep sand scratches over repair areas. If these flaws cannot be removed without exposing body filler — sand these areas using 80 grit dry sandpaper. Apply additional filler or glazing. Use only fillers or glazes that require a hardener. Let fillers cure, sand, clean, and then apply two to four coats of additional primer to the repaired area. 

To prevent body filler bleed through or staining, repaired areas must have a minimum of 2 mils of primer remaining after final sanding. Each wet coat of primer will cure down to slightly less than 1 mil. 

Never final sand with finer than 400 grit or adhesion of Basecoat will be impaired. 

Keep hands off object while sanding. As sanding progresses, oil from hands could be sanded into the primer causing inevitable problems. Wear lint free gloves.

Cleaning:

Wash the entire object with soapy warm water. Use a dishwashing liquid that leaves no residue or film. Complete a thorough rinsing. Blow off excess water, towel dry with lint and contamination free absorbents. Do not touch object with bare hands!  Doing so will contaminate the surface of the object and a re-cleaning will be required. Wear lint free gloves. 

If the object is thoroughly dry, apply Basecoats as soon as possible to avoid re-contamination.

Next Application Sequence:

You are now ready for Basecoat applications. Refer to Product Application Directions, Section 4-BCJD and 5-PBJD before you begin application.  Remember:  the entire object must be primed one uniform colour.

SECTION 4-BCJD

Overview:

Before proceeding, carefully read and understand these important directions that explain product functions and application methods. You will be applying critical coats in your project. Do not commence your applications until you have resolved any unanswered questions. 

Keep in mind that the X-otic Colour Custom Paint System requires rapid re-coats. These re-coat times are typically less than one-half hour. This assures maximum merging between coats and applications. Plan to apply all coats and applications in sequence without interruption. Therefore, planning your application sequences and time is crucial. 

Important:  If there is an unforeseen or planned interruption in the application process, specific steps must be taken. These steps are outlined in these directions and are also thoroughly explained in Product Application Directions, Section 5-PBJD. Read these directions before commencing basecoat application. 

Important: If artistic applications are planned we have provided a limited overview of the concept. Refer to Product Application Directions, Section 5-PBJD and the directions that follow. A thorough understanding of graphic and artistic procedures is required for successful outcomes. Highly skilled craftsmen typically design and apply these artistic applications. These craftsmen use many different techniques to apply these applications. Novice custom painters may find excellent references in their public library and magazines catering to the custom painter. 

Basecoats and Jammin’ Coats are never catalyzed. Once applied these non-catalyzed products are susceptible to smudging and solvent wipes. 

Candee Mid-Coats are always catalyzed. Candee Mid-Coats require X-otic Colours Urethane Catalyst, product number 40-100. 

Important: We do not recommend any solvent wipes or washes from this point forward. 

Note:  Different Basecoats, Candee Mid-Coats, and Jammin’ Coats have different application directions. Be certain to follow the correct Application Directions for the product you are applying. 

All recommendations made are based on minimum shop temperatures of 70º F. Re-coat times can be dramatically affected by temperature. Lower temperatures will create longer cure or dry times. Higher temperatures will shorten cure or dry times.
Basecoat and Jammin’ Coat General Information and Application Directions
(Does NOT apply to Candee Mid-Coats)

General Information:

Never directly sand on unprotected Basecoats.  Protective/Bonding/ & Jammin’ Cleer must first be applied. Refer to Product Application Directions, Section 5-PBJD.

If artwork or graphics are planned over Basecoats you will need product number 34-200, Protective/ Bonding/ & Jammin’ Cleer, along with Fast Reducer, product number 50-111. Have supplies ready — masking tape, paper, graphic coatings, and other related artistic supplies. X-otic Colours Production Cleer, product number 32-200, and Urethane Catalyst product number 40-100 may be required. Essential directions for artistic and graphic applications are provided in Product Application Directions, Section 5-PBJD.

A test spraying should be performed on a scrap item to adjust air pressure, fan, and paint flow to suit the spray equipment being used.  Use the same scrap item to which you applied your primer application. 

Never dry spray X-otic Colours Basecoats. Never spray wet-on-wet. Only spray medium coats. Any exception will affect product performance or appearance. 

Before commencing your Basecoat applications remember that re-coat windows are critical. Again, plan your time to complete all Basecoat applications without interruption. Re-coat times will vary with shop conditions. Basecoats, in general, should dry dull and just have dried to the touch before the next basecoat application – with the exception our two Imagin’ Basecoats. See the following Product Application Directions related to drying for these two Imagin’ Basecoats. Monitor drying of coats closely. Although there is a one-hour maximum re-coat window, we suggest using the minimum possible re-coat times – typically between 10 – 30 minutes depending on shop conditions. This will provide maximum merging of coats. 

Our eight product lines of Basecoats have different application directions. Be certain to follow the application directions for the Basecoat you will be applying.

Preparation:

If the primed object has become re-contaminated with fingerprints, dirt or dust, re-clean as recommended in Product Application Directions, Section 3-PCD. Be certain the surface is dry and moisture free before applying Basecoats.

If artistic applications are planned, do not start Basecoat Applications until your have read and thoroughly understand Protective/ Bonding and Jamming Cleer Product Application Direction, Section 5-PBJD.

Important Safety Note:  Wear correct safety equipment, including: respirator, goggles, gloves, painters suit, and a properly fitted NIOSH approved respirator.

Mixing for all Basecoats and Jammin’ Coats:

(Does NOT include Candee Mid-Coats)

1.       Stir or shake Basecoat thoroughly before use.

2.       Select appropriate reducer for your shop conditions and object size. 

Shop temperature will determine the selection of the appropriate reducer. Fast reducers are used when shop temperatures are in the 65° to 75°F range. Medium reducers are used in the 75° to 85°F range, and the slow reducer should be selected when the shop temperature is in the 85° to 95°F range. In general, when spraying large objects, a slower reducer will be used. Conversely, painting small objects may require a faster reducer. To reduce V.O.C. emissions, V.O.C. Exempt Reducer, product 50-444 may be used.

Note: Performance of Basecoats cannot be assured when reducers, other than X-otic Colours are used. 

Reduce Basecoats 50%, subject to the two exceptions below. Measure two parts Basecoat and combine with 1 measured part reducer by volume.  This ratio yields excellent sprayability.

Do not reduce Pearl Imagin’ Basecoats – colour series product pre- fix number 21, or Mirage Imagin’ Colour series of basecoats, product pre-fix number 20. These product lines or colour series are made from our Imagin’ Untinted Neutral Base, product number 20-101 and are sold ready to spray. 

Mixing for blends or touch-ups: To obtain seamless blends and invisible touch-ups slightly over-reduce the reduced basecoat mixture with approximately 10% of X-otic Colours Protective/ Bonding & Jammin’ Cleer product number 34-200.

Strain mixture into gun cup, using fine mesh cone strainer.

Note:  Do not Catalyze Basecoats or Jammin’ Coats. 

Application Directions:

(1) Sparklee Silver Metallic Basecoat, product number 08-100, is typically used when a Candee Mid-Coat is sprayed directly over a Silver Metallic Basecoat. This product has a higher concentration of metallic flakes. This is X-otic Colours only factory pak Basecoat. 

1.       Keep a gun distance of approximately 6-7 inches using a 50% overlap pattern.

2.       Keep a gun distance of approximately 6-7 inches using a 50% overlap pattern. 

3.       Do not attempt to attain coverage by spraying wet and heavy. 

4.     Do not dry spray or loss of adhesion may result.
Spray medium coats.

Topcoat Applications that may follow:

5.       If artistic applications are planned over the last Basecoat application, apply 2 coats of Protective/Bonding/ & Jammin’ Cleer, product number 34-200, when last Basecoat sprayed becomes just dry to the touch. This application should be allowed to dry for one hour, then lightly wet sanded with 500 grit wet/dry sandpaper. Wash, rinse, and dry. Then read Product Application Directions, Section 5-PBJD. Perform Artistic Applications.

6.       We recommend that Candee Mid-Coat applications or Sun-Bloct Final Cleer Coats should be applied when the last Basecoat application sprayed becomes just dry to the touch. Read: 6-SBD-PCD and Candee Mid-Coat Application Directions that follow. 


Note: Application Interruptions:  If you cannot commence your Candee Mid-Coats or Sun-Bloct Final Cleer Coat applications without interruption, apply 2 coats of Protective/ Bonding/ & Jammin’ Cleer, product number 34-200, after the last Basecoat application has become just dry to the touch. This application should be allowed to dry for one hour then lightly wet sand with 500 grit wet/dry sandpaper.

Wash, rinse, and dry.  Recommence applications of topcoats. Read: Product Application Directions, Section 5-PBJD.

Important: If you do not complete your sequence of Basecoat applications within each maximum re-coat window, re-basing will be required. This involves scuffing the interrupted Basecoat Application with a 3-M Red Scotch-Brite Padâ. Then, wash, rinse, and dry using uncontaminated lint free absorbents. Thenrestart Basecoat applications.

Application Directions:

1.       Apply sufficient (approximately 3-5) medium coats – or, until uniform coverage is attained. 

2.       Keep gun distance of approximately 6-7 inches, using a 75% overlap pattern. 

3.       Do not attempt to attain coverage by spraying wet and heavy. 

4.       Do not dry spray or loss of adhesion may result. Spray medium coats. 

5.       Before each coat, agitate or shake spray gun to insure thorough distribution of Pearls.

Topcoat Applications that may follow:

6.       If artistic applications are planned over the last Pearl Basecoat application, apply 2 coats of Protective/Bonding/ & Jammin’ Cleer, product number 34-200, when last Pearl Basecoat sprayed becomes just dry to the touch. This application should be allowed to dry for one hour then lightly wet sanded with 500 grit wet/dry sandpaper. Wash, rinse, and dry. Then Read Product Application Directions, Section 5-PBJD. Perform Artistic Applications.

7.       We recommend that Candee Mid-Coat applications or Sun Bloct Final Cleer Coats should be applied when the last Pearl Basecoat application sprayed becomes just dry to the touch. Read: Section 6-SBD-PCD, and Candee Mid-Coat Application Directions that follow. 

Note:  Application Interruptions:  If you cannot move directly into your Candee Mid-Coats or Sun-Bloct Final Cleer Coat applications without interruption, apply 2 coats of Protective/ Bonding/ & Jammin’ Cleer, product number 34-200, after the last Pearl Basecoat application has become just dry to the touch. This application should be allowed to dry for one hour then lightly wet sanded with 500 grit wet/dry sandpaper. Wash, rinse, and dry. Recommence applications of topcoats. Read: Product Application Directions, Section 5-PBJD.

Important Note: If you do not complete your sequence of Pearl Basecoat applications within each maximum re-coat window, re-basing will be required. This involves scuffing the interrupted Pearl Basecoat Application with a 3-M Red Scotch-Brite Padâ. Then, wash, rinse, and dry using uncontaminated lint free absorbents. Then restart Basecoat applications.

Application Directions:

PRODUCT COLOUR SERIES PREFIX NUMBERS  PRODUCT DESCRIPTION


1.      Apply approximately 2-4 medium coats – or, until uniform coverage is attained.

2.       Keep gun distance of approximately 6-7 inches using a 75% overlap pattern. 

3.       Do not attempt to attain coverage by spraying wet and heavy. 

4.       Do not dry spray or loss of adhesion may result. Spray medium coats.

5.       Before each coat, agitate or shake spray gun to insure thorough distribution of Mirage Pearls.

Topcoat Applications that may follow:

1.       If artistic applications are planned over the last Mirage Pearl Basecoat application, apply 2 coats of Protective/ Bonding/ & Jammin’ Cleer, product number 34-200, when last Mirage Pearl Basecoat sprayed becomes just dry to the touch. This application should be allowed to dry for one hour then lightly wet sanded with 500 grit wet/dry sandpaper.  Wash, rinse, and dry. Then read Product Application Directions, Section 5-PBJD.  Perform Artistic Applications. 

2.       Apply Production Cleer or Sun-Bloct Final Cleer Coats when the last Mirage Pearl Basecoat application sprayed becomes just dry to the touch.  Read Section 6-SBD-PCD.

Note:  Application Interruptions: If you cannot move directly into your Production Cleer or Sun Bloct Final Cleer Coat applications without interruption, apply 2 coats of Protective/ Bonding/ & Jammin’ Cleer, product number 34-200, after the last Mirage Pearl Basecoat application has become just dry to the touch. This application should be allowed to dry for one hour then lightly wet sanded with 500 grit wet/dry sandpaper.  Wash, rinse, and dry.  Recommence applications of topcoats. Read Product Application Directions, Section 5-PBJD. 

Important: If you do not complete your sequence of Mirage Pearl Basecoat applications within each maximum re-coat window, re-basing will be required. This involves scuffing the interrupted Mirage Pearl Basecoat Application with a 3-M Red Scotch-Brite Padâ. Obtain our Solid Colour Black Basecoat, product number 05-100. Apply 1-2 medium coats of Black Basecoat or until uniform coverage is obtained. Allow the last Black Basecoat application to become just dry to the touch.  Recommence Mirage Pearl Basecoat applications.

Important: Due to the cost of Mirage Pearl Basecoats, you will never want the application sequence interrupted. 

Application Directions:

Note: Special Preparation: Remember, these Basecoats are sold ready to spray. Do not reduce. Have your artistic and graphic supplies readily available.  Also, be certain to have X-otic Colours Protective/ Bonding/ & Jammin’ Cleer, product number 34-200, available.

Apply one medium wet coat. 

Keep gun distance of approximately 6-7 inches, using a 50% overlap pattern. 

Apply these Imagin’ Basecoats only to an area where you can rapidly create your Imagin’ effect. Do not allow the Imagin’ Basecoat to dry before the artistic effect is applied. 

Within 1-2 minutes of Imagin’ Basecoat application, apply artistic effect –foil, plastic wrap, etc. Then remove.  When the artistic effect is complete, allow to dry just to the touch or approximately 15 minutes. 

Apply one medium coat of Protective/ Bonding/ Jammin’ Cleer product number 34-200 using a 50% overlap pattern. After drying just to the touch, move directly into topcoats.

Note:   If the Imagin’ Basecoat has dried too long the application of the effect will be unsuccessful. You must re-base. Scuff the affected area with a red 3-M Scotch-Brite Padâ. Obtain our Solid Colour Black Basecoat, apply 1-2 medium coats of Black Basecoat or until uniform coverage is obtained.  Allow to just dry to the touch. Recommence Imagin’ Basecoat application, working within a smaller area. 

Note:  Application Interruptions: If you cannot move directly into your Production Cleer or Sun-Bloct Final Cleer Coat applications without interruption, apply 1 additional coat of Protective/ Bonding/ & Jammin’ Cleer after the previous coat of Protective/ Bonding/ & Jammin’ Cleer has become just dry to the touch. See number 5 above. This additional coat after drying will allow for wet sanding and adhesion of following topcoats. This application should be allowed to dry for one hour then lightly wet sand with 500 grit wet/dry sandpaper. Wash, rinse, and dry. Commence applications of topcoats. Read Product Application Directions, Section 5-PBJD.

Important: Do not forget to apply Protective/Bonding/ & Jammin’ Cleer over Imagin’ Basecoats within re-coat window. If this procedure is not followed, catalyzed Production Cleer or Sun-Bloct Final Cleer will not adhere to Imagin’ Basecoats. This procedure promotes adhesion.

Important: Create effects within small areas. Be certain you can rapidly complete these effects. Having a friend help when you are working with larger objects in these tight time frames can help insure success.

Important: Due to the cost of Mirage Imagin’ Basecoats, you will never want the application sequence to be interrupted or miss your re-coat windows. 
Candee Mid-Coat General Information & Application Directions
(Does not apply to Basecoats or Jammin’ Coats)

General Information:

For best flow and sprayability Candee Mid-Coats should be reduced as directed below. Never spray wet on wet. Allow flash-off time and tack up time between coats.   See Candee Mid-Coat Re-coat Windows (Tack Test).  Monitor drying carefully. Never spray a new coat on a previous coat that is dry to the touch, unless you allow the coat that has dried, to cure for 12 to 24 hours and then wet sand with 500 to 600 grit wet/dry sandpaper. 

For all Candee Mid-Coats, a test spraying should be performed on a scrap item to adjust air pressure, fan, and paint flow to suit the spray equipment being used. Use the same scrap item to which you applied your primer and Basecoat application. 

All recommendations are based on minimum shop temperatures of 70º F.  Re-coat times can be dramatically affected by temperature. Lower temperatures will create longer cure and dry times. Higher temperatures will shorten cure and dry times. Candee mid-coats require Urethane Catalyst, product number 40-100.

Preparation:

If there are no planned artistic applications, be prepared to apply Candee Mid-Coats, without interruption, as soon as your last Basecoat application has become just dry to the touch.

Important Safety Note: Wear correct safety equipment: respirator, goggles, gloves, painters suit. You will be mixing and spraying an isocyanate mixture. It is essential that you wear a properly fitted, NIOSH approved respirator effective for isocyanate vapors and mist.

Mixing For Candee Mid-Coats:

Mix only when ready to spray. Wear respirator when mixing. 

1.       Stir or shake Candee Mid-Coat thoroughly before use. 

2.       Select the appropriate reducer for your shop conditions and object size. Proper reducer selection is very important when spraying Candee Mid-Coats. Consideration should be given to object size.

Note: Performance of Candee Mid-Coats cannot be assured when reducers other than X-otic Colours are used.

3.       Requires Urethane Catalyst, X-otic Colours product number 40-100. 

4.       For convenience Candee Mid-Coats are filled to 23 ounces in a 32 oz. quart container. This allows room for the direct addition of catalyst and Candee tints. Our catalyst is sold in an 8 oz container and is mixed directly into the quart can. The addition of catalyst to the 23 oz. quart of Candee Mid-Coat produces a slightly over-catalyzed product for faster curing. The ability to directly add our 8 oz. catalyst container to the Candee Mid-Coat 23 oz. quart container reduces common mixing errors. 

5.       Optional Mixing: Measure by volume, 3 parts Candee Mid-Coat and combine with 1 part Urethane Catalyst. To this mixture add 1/2 part reducer. This equals 75% (Candee Mid-Coat), 25% (Urethane Catalyst) and 12.5 % (Reducer). This ratio typically yields good sprayability and flow under most shop conditions. For some artistic applications, custom painters will vary the amount of reducer or spray unreduced. 

6.       Strain mixture into gun cup, using fine mesh cone strainer.

Candee Mid-Coat Application Directions:

PRODUCT COLOUR SERIES PREFIX NUMBERS PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

1.       Custom painters with significant experience typically apply Candee Mid-Coats. Without experience, these applications may be difficult. 

2.       Always walk long objects. Keep a consistent overlap pattern. Maintain uniform coverage. Do not start and stop the gun during any given pass. 

3.       Apply one light bond or tack coat with a gun distance of 6-7 inches using a 75% overlap pattern. Allow to become tacky. See Tack Test. 

4.       Start applications of medium wet coats allowing sufficient re-coat time as described in number 5 below. Gun distance 6-7 inches using a 50% overlap pattern. Continue applications until depth of colour chosen is achieved.

Candee Mid-Coat Re-coat Windows:  (Tack Test)

5.       Re-coat Windows for Candee Mid-Coats: Monitor with a touch of the finger in the last area sprayed. 

Apply the next coat when the previous coat becomes tacky in the last area sprayed. There should be no evidence of “cobwebs” between your finger and the tested area when the finger is lifted. The next coat must be applied while the surface remains tacky.

Note: The success of Candee Mid-Coat applications depends on this test and your careful monitoring of the drying process. Do not spray wet-on-wet. 

Following Topcoat Applications:

6.       Move immediately into the application of your Sun-Bloct Final Clear Coats, product number 32-100, (requires urethane catalyst), after your last Candee Mid-Coat Application, using the tack test as the signal to commence your first application of Sun-Bloct Final Cleer. More information on Sun-Bloct Final Cleer Coats can be found in Product Application Directions, Section 6-SBD-PCD. 

If artistic applications are planned after the application of Candee Mid-Coats, let the final Candee Mid-Coat cure for a minimum of 12 hours.  Wet sand with 500 grit wet/dry sandpaper.  Wash, rinse and dry. Then apply 3 unreduced, medium coats of Production Cleer, product number 32-200, using the tack test to determine re-coat times. Let the final coat of Production Cleer cure for a minimum of 12 hours. Wet sand with 500 grit wet/dry sandpaper. Wash, rinse, and dry. Then apply artistic applications. Production Cleer requires Urethane Catalyst. This procedure is to prevent bleeding of Candee Mid-Coats into artistic applications. 

Bleeding, testing for bleeding and solutions are discussed in detail in Section 5-PBJD. Use the same touch test between coats of Production Cleer as listed in number 5 above. Again, monitoring drying is critical. For more information, refer to Product Application Directions, Section 6-SBD-PCD.

Option: Candee Mid-Coats can be colour sanded after curing 12 hours. Production Cleer, product number 32-200, may be applied. Production Cleer may then be colour sanded. Sun-Bloct Final Cleer is then applied.  Sun-Bloct Cleer may also be colour sanded.  Then, over-reduced Sun-Bloct Final Cleer Coats may be applied, cured, and polished. (Do not wax for 60 days). See Product Application Directions, Section 6-SBD-PCD: Optional colour sanding & Final Cleer Coats after Optional Colour Sanding. 

Important: As stated, observing drying time of Candee Mid-Coats is critical. If the application of one of your Candee Mid-Coats becomes dry to the touch and is not tacky, use the following procedure. Allow the coat that has dried to the touch to cure for 12 hours to avoid lifting problems. Wet sand with 500 to 600 grit wet/dry sandpaper. Wash, rinse, and dry. Recommence coats. 

Important: If you cannot move directly into your Sun-Bloct Final Cleer coat applications after your final Candee Mid-Coat application, follow this procedure. Allow the final Candee Mid-Coat to cure 12 to 24 hours and wet sand with 500 grit wet/dry. Wash, rinse, and dry. Commence application of Sun-Bloct Final Cleer Coats.

Note: Over spray from any catalyzed coats such as Candee Mid-Coats, will interfere with adhesion of Jammin’ Coats. Mask and protect areas where Jammin’ Coats are to be applied.

SECTION 5-PBJD

Product Overview:

X-otic Colours Protective/ Bonding/ & Jammin’ Cleer, product number 34-200, is a non-catalyzed, multi-function product that serves the following purposes:

1.       It is a Protective Cleer Coat when artwork or graphics are applied on a basecoat. The product protectsthe Basecoat from tape pulls and miss-tapes.

2.       It is used as a Bonding Coat applied before the expiration of a Basecoat  re-coat window when that application or application sequence is interrupted. 

3.       It is a fast drying Jammin’ Coat that is most often tinted to match Candee Mid-Coats. As a Jammin’ coat it was designed to rapidly attain depth of colour to match Candee Mid-Coats, shorten application times, and to minimize the number of application coats. One or two coats of Production Cleer, product 32-200, should be applied over Jammin’ Coats in areas susceptible to damage or chemical intrusions. If a Candee Mid-Coat is not being applied, most custom painters use their Pearl or Metallic Basecoats for Jammin’. 

Other Uses:

4.       It may also be used as a reducer in Basecoats for seamless blends and invisible touch-ups. 

5.       For experimentation and artistic creativity, this product is an excellent carrier of pearls, mirage pearls, and other products within our system.

Note: Protective/ Bonding & Jammin’ Cleer requires X-otic Colours Fast Reducer, product number 50-111. 

Protective/ Bonding/ & Jammin’ Cleer should never be used as a final exterior cleer coat. For a final cleer, select X-otic Colours Sun-Bloct Final Cleer, product number 32-100. 

Do not use as a multi-coat rapid film builder. For rapid film building use X-otic Colours Production Cleer, product number 32-200. 

Do not apply more than 4 coats of Protective/ Bonding/ Jammin Cleer in one application sequence. 

All recommendations made are based on minimum shop temperatures of 70º F. Re-coat times can be dramatically affected by temperature. Lower temperatures will create longer cure and dry times. Higher temperatures will shorten cure and dry times.

Preparation for use of this Product:

Important Safety Note: Wear correct safety equipment, including: respirator, goggles, gloves, painters suit, and a properly fitted NIOSH approved respirator.

This product requires no catalyst. It does require X-otic Colours fast reducer product number 50–111. 

If artistic applications are planned, use quality tapes to reduce adhesive transfer. Have 500 to 600 grit wet/dry sandpaper on hand. We suggest wet sanding with a small amount of non-film forming dishwashing liquid added to the water. Wet sanding limits transfer of body oils during sanding, allows abrasives to conform to object contours, and helps prevent sandpaper from clogging. Limit direct hand contact with the object to reduce surface contamination. You will need lint and contamination free wiping and drying materials.  Wear lint free gloves when working on dry surfaces. 

Mixing:

1.       Stir or shake the product aggressively before use.

2.       Reduce with Fast Urethane reducer, X-otic-Colours Reducer product number 50-111. No other reducer should be used in this product. 

3.       Accurately measure 2 parts of Protective/ Bonding/ & Jammin’ Cleer to one measured part Fast Urethane Reducer. This is the equivalent of a 50% reduction. 

Filter:

Strain mixture into gun cup using a fine mesh cone strainer.

Re-coats:

Always allow sufficient “flash off” time between coats. Each successive coat of Protective/ Bonding/ Jammin’ Cleer that is applied must be just dry to the touch. This will typically occur in less than fifteen minutes depending on shop conditions. Never apply more than four coats in one application.

Protective Use Of The Product:

General Information:

There are many methods for applying artwork and graphics.  Experienced custom painters have developed their own processes and special application techniques. We wish to provide general information that will be of assistance. We also refer you to additional information in your public library, along with specialized magazines that cater to custom painters interested in the artistic applications of custom paint. 

Never apply artistic tape-outs to a Metallic or Pearl Basecoat that has not been protected with Protective/ Bonding/ & Jammin’ Cleer. For artistic layouts: limit ungloved contact with the surface; limit tape contact;use light application pressure with tape to reduce adhesive transfer to Basecoats; allow minimum “flash off“ time on the artistic application coat which will limit adhesive transfer when the tape is removed.

Important: Bleeding is often encountered in artistic applications. Prior to performing artistic applications, conduct a bleeding test as outlined in these directions.

Application Directions for Protection: (Protective use for artistic and graphic applications)

1.       Test Spray – adjust air pressure, fan, and paint flow to suit the spray equipment being used.

2.       Gun Distance 6 inches – using a 50% overlap pattern. 

3.       When the last Basecoat application has just dried to the touchl, apply two medium coats of Protective/ Bonding/ & Jammin’ Cleer. This will help prevent the removal of pearl platelets, metallic flakes, and lifting of Basecoats from tape pulls and miss- tapes. 

4.       The Protective/ Bonding/ Jammin Cleer should be allowed to dry one hour. 

5.       Then lightly wet sand with 500 grit wet/dry sandpaper. Wash, rinse, and dry. 

6.       Apply artistic coats. 

7.       Allow each coat to just dry to the touch and then commence with topcoat applications as soon as the tape is removed. 

Note:  When applying multiple successive artistic applications of any of the following Basecoats:  Sparklin’ Metallic Basecoats; our four Pearl Basecoats; or Mirage or Mirage Imagin’ Basecoats, applications of Protective/ Bonding/ Jammin’ Cleer must be applied to each artistic application to protect from damage when tape-outs are pulled. Follow the directions above. 

Note:  Solid Colour Basecoats, when used for artistic application coats, are typically allowed to dry for one hour. They are then lightly wet sanded with 500 grit wet/dry sandpaper.  Wash, rinse, and dry. The next artistic application is then applied directly to the solid colour Basecoat without using Protective/ Bonding/ & Jammin Cleer.  However, the last solid colour basecoat that is used for artistic application should be just dry to the touch and topcoats should then be applied.  If it is not possible to commence topcoat within this re-coat window – allow to dry for one hour and wet sand as discussed above.

Note:  We do not recommend the use of solvents to remove adhesives. We suggest no solvent wipes or washes from this point forward. Some custom painters use 500 to 600 grit wet/dry sandpaper to remove adhesive transferred from tape pulls.

Bleeding that may be Encountered in Custom Painting & Suggested Solutions:

Some colours may bleed into artistic applications (usually very dark colours that carry higher concentrations of tint pastes or toners). A simple precautionary step to determine if bleeding will occur is to perform a small trial application. This trial application has saved many custom painters from unexpected problems during actual applications. A trial application can save labor, material, and money.

We suggest you perform the trial application on the scrap item you used and saved from your test spraying of Primer Coats. Apply all products – Basecoat through Cleer Coats – using the same application sequence planned for your artistic application. Allow recommended dry time between coats. If bleeding occurs during the trial application, specific steps will be required and are outlined below. 

There are typically two types of bleeding: 

* Type I:  Bleeding when an artistic application is applied on a protected Basecoat — (a protected Basecoat is a Basecoat on which Protective/ Bonding/ & Jammin’ Cleer has been applied).

* Type II:  Bleeding when an artistic application is applied over a catalyzed Candee Mid-Coat.

A Suggested Solution to Type I Bleeding: 

Allow the last Basecoat application to dry dull and become just dry to the touch.  Apply 2 medium coats of Protective/ Bonding/ & Jammin’ Cleer, product number 34-200. Allow to dry one hour. Lightly wet sand with 500 grit wet/dry sandpaper. Wash, rinse, and dry. Then apply 3 unreduced medium coats of Production Cleer, product number 32-200, (requires catalyst). See Product Application Directions for Production Cleer, Section 6-SBD-PCD. Use a simple tack test to determine re-coat times for Production Cleer. 

Tack Test: Each coat should become tacky to the touch in the last area sprayed before the next coat is applied. When this test is performed, there should be no evidence of “cobwebs” between your finger and the tested area when the finger is lifted. However, the surface must remain tacky before the next coat is applied. Monitoring this drying process is critical. 

Allow the final coat of Production Cleer to cure for  a minimum of 12 hours. Wet sand with 500 grit wet/dry sandpaper. Apply artistic application. This procedure will prevent bleeding of the Basecoat into artistic coats when topcoats are applied.

Note: If any Production Cleer Coat becomes dry to the touch before it can be re-coated, specific steps must be taken as outline in Product Application Directions, Section 6-SBD-PCD.
Otherwise lifting will occur. 

A Suggested Solution to Type II Bleeding: 

If artistic applications are planned after the application of Candee Mid-Coats, let the final Candee Mid-Coat cure for a minimum of 12 hours.  Wet sand with 500 grit wet/dry sandpaper. Wash, rinse, and dry.  Then apply 3 unreduced medium coats of Production Cleer, product number 32-200 (requires catalyst). 

Use the tack test between coats of Production Cleer. Each coat should become tacky in the last area sprayed before the next coat is applied.  When this test is performed, there should be no evidence of “cobwebs” between your finger and the tested area when the finger is lifted. However, the surface must remain tacky. Monitoring this drying process is critical. 

Allow the final coat of Production Cleer to cure for  a minimum of 12 hours. Wet sand with 500 grit wet/dry. Wash, rinse, and dry. Apply artistic application. This procedure will prevent bleeding of the Candee Mid-Coat into artistic coats when topcoats are applied. 

Note:  If any Production Cleer Coat becomes dry to the touch before it can be re-coated, specific steps must be taken as outline in Product Application Directions, Section 6-SBD-PCD. Otherwise lifting may occur.

Bonding Use of the Product:

General Information:

For most coats, in X-otic Colours Custom Painting System, rapid successive re-coating is essential. This requires careful planning.  Re-coats should be applied as soon as possible, often less than fifteen minutes.  This promotes maximum merging of coats. As more time elapses between coats – less merging or adhesion takes place. Careful monitoring of re-coats is important. Therefore planning your time, application sequence, as well as understanding the use of Protective/ Bonding/ & Jammin Cleer is important. 

We do not suggest an interruption in an application or sequence of applications. However, the option to interrupt coats or the application sequence has been provided for by using Protective/ Bonding/ & Jammin Cleer. This product is not intended as a “cure-all” for poor planning. 

We suggest that you should have Protective/ Bonding/ & Jammin’ Cleer available if there is an unforeseen interruption or planned interruption in your application schedule. The use of this product will allow you to interrupt a series of uncatalyzed coats or your application sequence.

Important:  This product can only be applied to other un-catalyzed coats. It should never be applied to Candee Mid-Coats or any other catalyzed coat. 

Important:  Do not forget to apply Protective/Bonding/ & Jammin’ Cleer over Imagin’ Basecoats. If this procedure is not followed Catalyzed Cleer Coats (Sun-Bloct Final Cleer or Production Cleer) will not adhere to Imagin’ Basecoats.  This procedure promotes adhesion.

Application Directions For Bonding:

1.       Test Spay – adjust air pressure, fan, and paint flow to suit the spray equipment being used.

2.       Gun Distance 6 inches – using a 50% overlap pattern. 

3.       Spray two medium coats of Protective/ Bonding/ & Jammin’ Cleer. It should be applied when the coat that is interrupted has just dried to the touch. Do not wait longer than the one hour maximum re-coat window to apply Protective/ Bonding/ & Jammin’ Cleer. 

4.       Allow sufficient drying time between coats of Protective/ Bonding/ & Jammin’ Cleer. Each coat must be just dry to the touch before the application of the next coat. Usually less than fifteen minutes. Monitor closely. 

The project may now be placed on hold until work can resume. To restart application, lightly wet sand with 500 to 600 grit wet/dry sandpaper. Clean, rinse, and dry. Resume planned application sequence.

Jammin’ Use of the Product:

General Information: Protective/ Bonding/ & Jammin’ Cleer is a fast drying Jammin’ product most often tinted to match Candee Mid-Coats. The product was designed to rapidly attain depth of colour to match Candee Mid-Coats, shorten application times, and minimize the number of application coats. Jammin’ Coats will dry to a semi-gloss finish.

Note: Jammin’ Coats are not catalyzed. Therefore, Jammin’ Coats may be susceptible to damage or chemical intrusion. The application of one or two coats of Production Cleer, product number 32-200, will increase gloss, increase scuff resistance, and assist in limiting damage from chemical intrusion. 

Application of the Product for Jammin’:

1.       Surface should be prepared according to Project Preparation Directions, Section 2-PPD.

2.       Test Spay – adjust air pressure, fan, and paint flow to suit the spray equipment being used. 

3.       Gun Distance 6 inches – using a 50% overlap pattern. 

4.       Spray 1-2 medium coats or until depth of colour is obtained. 

5.       Each coat must be just dry to the touch before the application of the next coat. Usually less than fifteen minutes. Monitor closely. 

For Jammin’ applications, the final Jammin’ coat will dry to a semi-gloss finish. Sanding will be required to promote adhesion if a high gloss is desired. For high gloss, lightly sand with 500 grit wet/dry sandpaper and apply two coats of catalyzed Production Cleer, product number 32-200. Refer to Product Application Directions, Section 6-SBD-PCD. 

Other Uses of the Product:

For seamless blends and invisible touch ups, use Protective/ Bonding/ & Jammin’ Cleer, product number 34-200, in all of our uncatalyzed Basecoats at a concentration of approximately 10%. Never use in our Candee Mid-Coats that are catalyzed.

For artistic creativity and experimentation this product may be used as the base to carry our tint pastes, toners, pearls and metallic flakes. 

SECTION 6-SBD-PCD

Product Overview:

X-otic Colours Urethane Cleers are designed around proven technology that will provide extremely high gloss and years of protection. Custom painting typically employs multiple applications to achieve high film-build and distinction of image. To maintain this finish, we recommend hand washing with a mild detergent along with a thorough rinse. Towel dry. Do not use automatic washing equipment or high-pressure washes. (Waxing)

Sun-Bloct Final Cleer, product number 32-100, is used to complete the perfect custom project. Sun-Bloct Final Cleer is easy to wet sand and buff.  When used with our reducers, this product is “user friendly” with excellent flow and leveling characteristics. Our Sun-Bloct Final Cleer will produce a high-gloss finish that is resilient and chip resistant. The finish provides incredible tensile strength and will also be resistant to damage or intrusion from chemical sources. Curing will require 16 to 24 hours at 70ºF.

Production Cleer, product number 32-200, is a faster drying urethane cleer. It is used to promote distinction of image, D.O.I., and for rapid film building. If Production Clear is used as a final cleer, the finish will require more time to buff and shine. This product has the advantage of speed. Production Cleer will cure faster than our Sun-Bloct Final Cleer. Production Cleer requires eight hours of curing at a temperature of 70ºF before wet sanding. Production Cleer may also be force cured at 140°F for 45 to 60 minutes.

Note:  X-otic Colours Cleers are tintable. For example, a toner or tint paste could be added to our Sun-Bloct Final Cleer. This will intensify the depth of colour of an underlying basecoat or solid colour.

Preparation:

X-otic Colours Urethane Catalyst, product number 40-100, will be required. Select correct reducer for object size and shop conditions. Object to be sprayed should be prepared to receive these applications as outlined in previous Basecoat, Candee Mid-Coat, & Jammin Coat Application Directions, Section 4-BCJD. Also refer to Product Application Directions, Section 5-PBJD.

Important Safety Note: Wear correct safety equipment: respirator, goggles, gloves, painters suit. You will be mixing and spraying an isocyanate mixture. It is essential that you wear a properly fitted, NIOSH approved respirator effective for isocyanate vapors and mist.

Application Overview:

These products may be spayed unreduced for rapid film build. For best flow and sprayability they should be reduced as directed below. Never spray wet on wet. Allow flash off time and tack up time between coats. See tack test below. Monitor drying carefully. Never spray a new coat on a previous coat that is dry to the touch, unless you allow this coat to cure for 12 to 24 hours and then wet sand with 500 to 600 grit wet/dry sandpaper. 

All recommendations are based on minimum shop temperatures of 70º F.  Re-coat times can be dramatically affected by temperature.  Lower temperatures will create longer cure and dry times.  Higher temperatures will shorten cure and dry times.

Note: Production Cleer product number 32-200 is a multi- function product that also serves as the colour carrier or base for our Candee Mid-Coats.

Mixing:

Mix only when ready to spray. Wear respirator when mixing. 

1.       Select the appropriate reducer for your shop conditions and object size.  Proper reducer selection is very important. Careful consideration should be given to object size. 

Important: Do not reduce Production Cleer when used to prevent bleeding during the process of artistic applications. 

Shop temperature will determine the selection of the appropriate reducer. Fast reducers are used when shop temperatures are in the 65° to 75°F ranges. Medium reducers are used in the 75° to 85°F range, and the slow reducer should be selected when shop temperature are in the 85° to 95°F range. In general, when spraying large objects, a slower reducer will be used. Conversely, painting small objects may require a faster reducer. To reduce V.O.C. emissions, product number 50-444, V.O.C. Exempt Reducer may be used.

Note: Performance of Cleer coats cannot be assured when reducers other than X-otic Colours are used. Requires Urethane Catalyst, X-otic Colours product number 40-100.

2.       For convenience, Production Cleer and Sun Bloct-Final Cleer are filled to 23 and 24 ounces respectively in a 32 oz. quart container. This allows room for the direct addition of catalyst and optional tints. Our catalyst is sold in an 8 oz container and is mixed directly into the quart can. The addition of catalyst to the 23 oz. quart of Production Cleer produces a slightly over-catalyzed product for faster curing. The addition of catalyst to the 24 oz. quart of Sun-Bloct Final Cleer maintains our 3 to 1 mixing ratio. The ability to directly add our 8 oz. catalyst container to either product’s quart container reduces common mixing errors. 

3.       Optional Mixing: Measure by volume, 3 parts Cleer and combine with 1 part Urethane Catalyst. To this mixture add 1/2 part reducer. This is 75% (Cleer), 25% (Urethane Catalyst) and 12.5% (reducer). This mixture typically yields good spray-ability and flow under most shop conditions. When spraying Production Cleer over artistic applications some custom painters will vary the amount of reducer.

Filter:

Strain mixture into gun cup, using fine mesh cone strainer.

Application Directions:

1.       Always walk long objects.  Keep a consistent overlap pattern.  Maintain uniform coverage. 

2.       Apply one light bond or tack coat with a gun distance of 6-7 inches using a 50% overlap pattern. Allow to become tacky.  See Tack Test below. 

3.       Start applications of two to three medium wet coats allowing sufficient re-coat time as described in the tack test below. Exception: Apply only medium coats when Production Cleer is used to prevent bleeding during the process of artistic applications. 

4.       Continue applications until all coats are applied. Do not spray wet on wet.

Tack Test:

Re-coat Windows for All Cleer Coats: Monitor with a touch of the finger in the last area sprayed. Apply the next coat when the previous coat becomes tacky. There should be no evidence of “cobwebs” between your finger and the tested area when the finger is lifted. The next coat must be applied while the surface remains tacky. The success of cleer coat applications depends on this test and your careful monitoring of the drying process.

Important: As stated, observing drying time of Cleer Coats is critical. If the application of one of your Cleer Coats becomes dry to the touch and is not tacky use the following procedure: Allow the coat that has dried to the touch to cure for 12 hours to avoid lifting problems. Wet sand with 500 to 600 grit wet/dry sandpaper. Wash, rinse, and dry. Recommence coats.

Note: Over spray from any catalyzed coats, such as Cleer Coats, will interfere with adhesion of Jammin’ Coats. Mask and protect areas where Jammin’ Coats are to be applied.

Optional Colour Sanding:

After cleer coats have cured 12-24 hours colour sand with 500 to 600 grit wet sandpaper. When wet sanding Cleers, use the smallest possible amount of dishwashing liquid so that detergents will not attack the cleer coat. Rinse sanded areas quickly. Sand the entire vehicle flat, leaving no shinny areas. Wash, rinse, and dry.

Final Cleer Coats After Optional Colour Sanding:

Reduce catalyzed Sun-Bloct Final Cleer an additional 10 to 12% using our V.O.C. exempt reducer, product number 50-444.

Note: This reducer will increase re-coat times. Apply one medium coat, allow for tack time. Then apply 1 to 2 wet coats using tack test between coats. 

Allow to cure 24 hours. If optional polishing is selected, waiting longer than 24 hours will increase the difficulty of this step. Always allow 60 days of cure time before any quality wax is applied. 

Information provided in this document is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind, either expressed or implied, including but not limited to the  implied warranties of merchantability and/or fitness for a particular purpose.

The user assumes the entire risk as to the accuracy and the use of the information supplied. This information may be copied and distributed subject to the following condition. All text must be copied without modification and all pages must be included. This information may not be distributed for profit.