How to Paint a Clearcoat

Vehicles were not always as shiny as they are today. Automakers sprayed clear coat only on higher-end cars, leaving regular cars with a dull paint finish. Clear coat makes a car shiny, protects the paint from the damaging rays of the sun and makes the car easier to clean. Learn how to paint a clear coat yourself so you can add one to your car or restore a damaged clear coat.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Automotive clear coat paint Gravity-fed automotive spray gun Air compressor (for spray gun) Tack rag Automotive paint thinner Clean metal can (empty paint can)

1. Check the surface of the car to make sure it is clean and completely dry. Use a tack rag to wipe the car down to remove any dust or light debris. Cover all areas you do not want painted (such as windows and chrome).

2. Measure the clear coat paint and paint thinner until you get a half-and-half mixture. Pour the mixture into the spray gun and close it. Attach the spray gun to the air hose and turn on the compressor. Make sure the compressor is capable of 50 to 80 psi (pounds per square inch) and 10 to 12 cfm (cubic foot per minute).

3. Spray a thin coat of clear coat onto the car. Spray evenly and lightly so that a very thin layer is applied. The first layer should be tacky and not dripping wet.

4. Apply a second coat of clear coat while the first coat is still tacky-feeling. The second coat can be thicker than the first.

5. Apply a third coat after the second coat dries somewhat.

Tips & Warnings

• Clean the surface of the car before spraying the clear coat, or you will see debris and dust in the paint.
• Don't spray the clear coat too heavily, or runs will appear. They are hard to see but may be visible.

Resources

• Mobileworks: Clear coats