My first time using a real spray HVLP gun, although not a good one like a SATA which I will get for the BC\CC. I'm trying my first time out with a Astro Pneumatic and spraying Epoxy primer on my frame.
My question:
I bought the regulator that fits right on the gun. I've read that you should adjust the regulator at ( 29 lbs on my gun) with the trigger pulled.
Dry testing with the trigger closed I can adjust the regulator to 29 lbs.
As soon as I pull the trigger the regulator gauge drops to zero on the gun.
I am hitting the regulator with a 100 lbs from my compressor.
it seems to spray alright but seems odd that it just drops to zero. Is it actually regulating?
Is this normal??

Thanks
Ray

I think that you are okay. I think it has something to do with the way that particular regulator works.
Try pulling the trigger on the gun and then adjusting the pressure with the regulator... if the pressure changes then you are regulating!!!!

I'm using the Astro QUL and the regulator is at the gun. My pressure "before" spraying is a little over 40psi and drops to 30 while just blowing air. I adjusted it to 29-30 with the air flowing. I also have 100 psi at the compressor regulator. I'm also using a ball type filter at the gun just before the regulator.

I don't know why it would be dropping to 0 while spraying. Mine doesn't do that nor does my Devilbis plus. I guess the main thing is if it's spraying good. If it's spraying at all, it's got to have more than 0 psi.

I've sprayed SPI epoxy, unreduced through a 1.5 tip and SPI 2K regular build through a 1.7 and it sprays both great! :thumbsup:

Thanks guys for the feedback.

i was very pleased with the way the Astro's sprayed. I think Lowes may carry a small reg that fits at the gun. I bought the Astro kit that has two guns but it came with one regulator. I may pick up one at Lowes and compare and see what that does.

Thanks
Ray

When adjusting a regulator for spraying you will always want to have your finger on the trigger. Remember that the pressure quoted on the tech sheet is at the spray tip, under spraying conditions.
Whenever I'm spraying I let my tank air up, connect any hoses, dryers, accumulators I'll need in line first.
Attach the empty gun and set the pressure while holding the trigger. After everything is set properly, mix your product, fill the gun and fine tune your fan pattern. This way you're also not losing pot time. Not a big deal when doing a single panel, but adds up quickly when covering a full car.

I'm no professional so this process may be partially flawed, but it's worked out great for me so far. I'm sure other, more experienced members will chime in with time.