9 replies to this topic

[MAXR]

Has anyone had experience or has actually hand painted (with a roller) a box type trailer? Does it look sh1t or is it acceptable?

[ianrm]

I have used a foam roller and then brushed it out with a high quality brush (Purdy) and achieved a high gloss smooth finish, That was with Dulux gloss paint on doors. 

 

Do some googling there are some very informative videos on achieving a perfect finish.

 

[TheHood]

If the surface is in good condition and the colour is staying the same, a light sand with 250-ish grit (dual action sander unless you're a masochist), wipe down with paint prep then straight on with the topcoat.

If you want it to last use something like Cromadex fast air drying semi-gloss. You could go for full gloss but it shows up the roller marks more unless you've had a lot of practice.

I'd use Würth foam mini rollers even though it's a large area for the extra control a small roller gives.

To avoid micro bubbles in the finish dont use those little trays rollers sometimes comes with, instead use a square of cardboard to allow extra space to work the paint onto the roller more evenly. You almost want to imagine you're painting the cardboard before applying the paint to the surface. Expect to change the rollers quite frequently to avoid the finish changing as the roller becomes over loaded with paint.

If the colours is changing or the surface is rough / scratched, start sanding with 80 grit and finish with about 250 grit sandpaper, wipe down with paint prep, undercoat with something suitable for the surface material and allow at least a full day for it to dry without it getting wet, then topcoat. If the topcoat paint starts to lift the undercoat off causing discolouration find something else to do for the day to give the undercoat more time to cure.

I've never found the need to brush over the paint, infact if I was going to use a brush I wouldn't bother with the roller first.

All a bit tedious compared to an hour in a spray booth 😄

HTH 👍

[MAXR]

Thanks guys for your experience and sound advice, The problem is, the trailer was made by a truly particular and talented aerospace engineer. He has fitted the outer aluminium panels with countless dome head rivets. It would therefore be difficult to sand prior to painting. The outer surface is currently mainly spray painted to a good standard, but it has become faded by sunlight and I’m not a fan of the colour or painted design scheme.

I’m just wondering if firstly it would prove impossible to sand and key the surface around all the rivets? Especially if the paint doesn’t adhere to the rivets or surrounding area and eventually flake away. Secondly, it may look even worse than it does now with a rolled or brushed finish.

I’ll take a photo later and upload it so that you can appreciate what I’m talking about.

Cheers again

Max

[TheHood]

Paint stripper safe for aluminium or a wire wheel in a drill around the rivets.

I don't think you'll be happy with a hand painted finish given the high standard of the trailer.

If you prep it yourself including masking I can't see a pro sprayer charging too much. I'd say have a go with a spray gun yourself but hobby compressors don't have big enough tanks to keep up.

Edited by TheHood, 28 March 2020 - 03:48 PM.

[MAXR]

I presume a wrap would lift around the rivets?


http://u.cubeupload....9F444A973B.jpeg

http://u.cubeupload....B44494AE6C.jpeg

[TheHood]

I rather like that design 😄

I don't really have any experience with wraps so wouldn't like to comment.

The paint doesn't look like it's flaking - personally I'd just light sand it and spray it; with good paint it should last ages. A full strip down would be best for longevity if you have the time, oh wait we all do 😄

[JG]

Forge the paint, it needs a wheel  

[MAXR]

😂 New tapered bearings, brake shoes, wheels and tyres being fitted.
I had to modify the hydraulic clam roof by adding the Aluminium section in to allow my VX to fit in!

Luckily I have a sheet metal folder and I had the time to make it.

I’ll probably attempt to spray paint it myself??

[joshua]

If you are painting any bare aluminium you’ll need a special primer or a surface treatment like alochrom or the paint may not stay put.