tips for first time painter

[nova_stee]

I plan to buy a compressor and a paint gun to do some small paint jobs of my own i,e bumpers etc.
What type of air presure do i need it to be on at the gauge?
Will a 50litre 2hp compressor be ok if i just take my time?
Any other tips anyone can give so i dont get dry spots,runs or orange peel
thanks stee

[16v Nova Kev]

50 ltr is too small IMO. Things your going to need are.
1. 150 ltr comp(bigger would be better)
2. Face mask
3. Water trap
Your also going to need some consumables
1. Fast panel wipe(degreaser)
2. Singly ply paper towel
3. Sand paper in grades of 80 180 320 500 and 800 wet and dry
4. High solid 2k primer
5. Stopper
6. Filler I.e big easy and top stop
7. Masking tape and paper or pro mask
8. Thinners/ gun wash

That's just a start and is quite a shopping list price all that up on eBay

[paul james]

The hp of the compressor you need will depend on what air tools you want to use on it. A spray gun may well require a higher hp (the cfm number is a better measurement to go by though). The air pressure you need to set to will also depend on what tool you are using, any tool like a spray gun should come with instructions with recommended pressue settings.

A 3hp compressor will only cost a little bit more than a 2hp one, and will be more capable. Have a look on ebay for compressors, you can save a fortune on them. The same compressors are sold under a variety of different names, so the ones in the shops are available much cheaper with just a different name slapped on them. A 50ltr compressor is still big enough to spray for a decent amount of time, obviously the bigger the better, but if a 50ltr is all you have space for then its not a poor mans choice.

Get a good regulator/filter, to keep pressure stable and remove the compressor oil and water vapour from the air supply - thats the important first step in getting paint right.