How to Mix Auto Paint With Reducer

Mix the paint properly. There are no shortcuts.

To spray a perfect paint job requires a perfect paint mix. There are several important steps that must be followed to achieve the right blend, especially if metallic paint is involved. Regardless of the enamel paint you use, either single stage or dual stage, using the right reducer makes a difference in your outcome.

Things You'll Need

• Thermometer
• Humidity reading meter
• Measured mixing cup

Instructions

1. Take a temperature reading and select the right reducer. Reducer comes in three temperature ranges, low, mid and high. Fifty to 60 degrees is the low range reducer. The middle range reducer is rated for use between 60 to 70 degrees. Temperatures above 70 degrees require using the high range reducer. Low temperature reducers flash-dry faster to keep the paint from sagging and running. Do not use a fast drying reducer on a hot day. This will cause the paint spray to be powdery, because the paint is dry before it reaches the panel being painted.

2. Take a humidity reading. If the humidity is above 50 percent either postpone painting or have access to a heated paint booth. Trapping moisture in the paint is mixing oil and water. They separate and create a poor product. Automotive paint can manage a great deal of moisture as it cures, but when spray painting beyond 50 percent humidity the results become unpredictable.

3. Follow the instructions that came with your paint product regarding your dilution ratio. Major automotive paint manufacturers recommend various paint ratios. All of the auto paint stores have mixing cups with graduated scales. Some manufacturers also recommend and have statistics on drip tests. This means properly mixed paint will have a certain number of drips fall off the end of a paint stick in a given time. Once properly mixed, the paint is ready to spray.

Tips & Warnings

• Clear coat paint does not require dilution with reducer. It is activated with additive, stirred thoroughly and sprayed. You must follow the same temperature and humidity considerations.

• It is a good idea to become familiar with mixing charts. These help provide an overview into the way automotive paint products work together.

• As a general rule, it is not recommended to mix and match paint products from various manufacturers. It's best to stick with one brand per job.

• Wear a respirator and protective clothes. Once activated, the clear coat will harden, even in your lungs.

References

• Dupont: Nason Finishes
• Sherwin Williams: Mixing Ratios