I hear there's a new kind of automotive paint being used here in CA and I'm wondering if it's being used anywhere else and if it is good to use. I'm told this paint is more durable, lasts longer, etc. Just wondering if this is true? Please chime in if you have info on this. I found a website about this paint called Auto Air Colors http://www.hotrod.com/techarticles/113_0507_auto_air_colors_water_based_automotive_pa int/index.html and this is the paint I'm talking about.

Auto air has been around fro some time, alot of airbrush work is done with their paints. I have seen some sharp rides done in it. i even think one of the auto restoration shows did a car in their water based paint.

I have a friend who's shop has made the switch to waterborn here in NJ. It has its pros and cons just like anything else. They are also using UV primers with outstanding results. Its only a matter of time till we all have to use it. Go Green................right.



bob

Yeah, AQMD regs. here in SoCal. The color coat is water base but you can still use urethane clear over it.

alan

Shouldn't be a problem. Water borne paints are currently used in new car Manufacturing, particularly anything built in California. They require more drying time but are very durable. (Might not be a good idea if you plan on doing this as a DIY project, though) Paint technicians can get more information on application and tips from ICAR or thier manufacturers.

BMW uses waterborne paint, as well as other high end cars. I've never seen a bad paint job on a new car.

Just about every assembly plant on the planet uses waterborne (dip) primer and waterborne color basecoat, with urethane clear. Those that don't right now will within the next five years. Waterborne spray booth requirements in an assembly plant are very exacting; air temp must be held +/- 1*F, and humidity must be held +/- 1% at all times.

:beers:

The Body guys I know are telling me that EPA is driving the auto paint industry and that has been on going for some time. Water based paint certianly has it pros and cons as said previously in this post. But on the big time upside - It is much easier to clean up then any of the paints before it. It still a little early in the game to know how they will hold up, but so far they are looking pretty promising.