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There is a lot of discussions about HVLP/conversion guns etc. I have gone back through the archives and tried to understand what is best. I also get FWW and have gone back through and read articles. I hate to say it but I still could use some help. I am close to just saying keep applying finsh by brush or rag. I have a kitchen to do and some doors but what I want to spray for is a quicker, durable, high quality finish on small production runs on things like mirrors, end tables, stools etc. and occassional things the size of an entertainment center. Kitchen cabinets is not what I do. I got in a hardwood gallery and he want more items. So the quality has to be very good. I only have a 1 1/2 emglo compressor and my shop is small and crowded with tools. I just poured a pad outside it with a shed roof above. I am going to screen in and was going to set up there weather permitting. The last thing I want is something gathering dust. Please, if you can, evaluate my above need and give advice. I know about Jeff Jewitts sight but don’t know the way to turn. Please also talk money if possible Thanks in advance, this has been a tough one. Tony
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Replies
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Tony,
8 years ago, I bought a Sharpe HVLP conversion gun. It has proved to be one of the best purchases I have made. I started with a smaller compressor and used it for probably 6 years. I recently popped for PC's big 60gallon vertical compressor, and it has really improved my speed. There is just no substitute for sprayed finishes if you want outstanding finishes quickly. Like you, I shoot outside 100% of the time. I don't have the luxury of a concrete pad, but that is in the works for next summer. I do much the same kind of work you describe, mostly furniure, with the occasional larger job. I find the gun to be time effecient for any finishing job larger than painting one or two drawer pulls. I use mostly laquer type finishes, so getting the gun absolutely clean after each use is not necessary. As a result, I can generally clean it in less than 3 minutes. If the full disassembly is required, it might take 6 or 7 minutes.
Your biggest concern will be if your emglo will supply enough air. You can make do with a significantly undersized compressor if it has a 10 gallon or larger tank. All that is required is waiting for the pressure to come back up. With my old compressor, I had to wait a lot. It eventually drove me nuts which is why I got the PC.
My gun was something like $175. I'd do it again in a heartbeat.
Tim
*An Emglo is my only compressor, but I get great results with an HVLP I purchased from Jeff Jewitt. Jeff has guns with differing air requirements and different price points. You won't find similar service, knowledge and patience anywhere else. http://www.homesteadfinishing.com is the place to post your question.
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