In recent years, "water" paint-water-based and water-borne-has evolved from being used primarily with custom graphics to being used on entire full-vehicle paint jobs (our very own mail-order F-100 serving as perfect evidence). And while solvent-based naysayers will defend their enamels, urethanes, and what have you to the bitter end, the truth is, water-based paint is here to stay. If you need further proof, wait till 2009 when all automobile manufacturers will use this alternative type of paint.
While Auto-Air Colors' paint can now be used with a reducer, the paint's 0.1 percent VOC base level means you can spray it outdoors without worrying about some of the aftereffects encountered with solvent-based material. However, you're entirely on your own when it comes to your neighbor's view on the issue, so be cautious of your overspray-more importantly, where it may end up! Moreover, the reducer was developed to help thin the paint, providing better flow. Due to its characteristics, it will increase the material's VOC level, but not to a point anywhere near that of conventional paint. For the best application, though, it's highly recommended that all jobs be performed in an environment free of pollutants and contaminants, so reconsider painting your truck on the side of the house next to the neighbor's Winnebago. We strongly suggest using a spray booth as well as proper safety equipment, the obvious being an approved respirator.
The following series of photos documents a complete paint job from preparation to polish of the Auto-Air Colors '58 Chevy pickup, which debuted at the 2004 SEMA Show (at which time the use of this type of paint was even more unique for entire vehicles). More importantly, its paint has held up and endured the elements to this day, further proving that water-based/borne paint is here to stay.
 Paint preparation follows...  Paint preparation follows customary methods. After all the metalwork is completed, a 2k high-build surfacer is applied. Using a block and following a light guidecoat of urethane sealer, the primer is sanded down by hand to remove any high points. |  After sanding, a urethane...  After sanding, a urethane sealer spot-covers any exposed metal, preventing corrosion due to direct contact with the water-based paint. Water-based paints will work with both urethane and epoxy primers. |  Basecoat sealer is initially...  Basecoat sealer is initially applied. The basecoat serves two purposes: it acts as a very low build covering minor scratches, creating an even surface to paint on, and it color-keys with the Metallic Midnight Blue for a dark finish. It's important to work in much lighter coats than what's customary with urethane paints (three coats of base were sprayed). Gun setup is different as well. Here, Rob uses a SATA RP with a 1.2mm nozzle operated at 40 psi. Although the water-based paint is non-toxic, a mask should be worn to prevent ingesting the automotive-grade pigments, the same type used in solvent-based paints. |