Replies

1. 
   JeffHeath | Jan 24, 2006 06:13pm | #1

   Kimberly

   If I were in your shoes, I'd go to http://www.homesteadfinishing.com. The proprietor there is Jeff Jewitt, an excellent finisher, and author of several books and articles published by our host.  He sells hvlp and conversion guns, and will be able to steer you in the direction that most suits your needs.

   Jeff

1. 
   jackplane | Jan 24, 2006 07:26pm | #2

   I'd go with an HVLP setup. It's very portable,less overspray, etc.etc. A spray gun connected to a compressor requires tremendous volume(capacity) to run continuously at higher air output. 

1. 
   JeffHeath | Jan 25, 2006 02:16am | #3

   I actually have both.  What you are saying is correct up until a few years ago, but Eco, among others, sells a conversion gun that doesn't need gobs of air.  I have a large compressor in the shop, so for myself it doesn't matter.  I like the Eco with my compressor  more than my 3 stage turbine hvlp.  I can crank up the air a little to increase atomization, without thinning the product.  Before all the expert finishers jump in here, that ain't me.  It's just what I've learned from Jeff Jewitt, and have applied it successfully in my shop.  I'm curious to hear back what you think.

   Jeff

1. 
   jackplane | Jan 25, 2006 03:03pm | #4

   A conversion setup sounds good, what is the size and cfm of your compressor? 

1. 
   JeffHeath | Jan 25, 2006 11:53pm | #5

   I have the Ingersoll Rand 80 gallon 5hp motor.  Its from their commercial line, as I use it to drive a 3/4" HD impact wrench, etc...  27.4 cfm at 90 psi, a boatload of air.  However, the Eco doesn't require anywhere near that, and I believe I read (correct me if I'm wrong) that a 20 gallon smaller Porter Cable type compressor will operate it just fine.

   I just wanted the fella to know that there were options out there.  I used to love my Apollo hvlp, and guess I still do.  But now, with the Eco, I only use the Apollo for paint.  The Eco stays dedicated to WB finish. 

   Jeff

2. 
   tangomike | Jan 26, 2006 11:08am | #6

   My Asturo Eco/S runs on 7cfm at 21psi. You can, and I have, run that gun on a pancake compressor.

2. 
   Ronaway | Jan 26, 2006 03:31pm | #7

   Kimberly, I think you would really appreciate the ease of using a gun that doesn't have the large volume turbine hose attached to it, I also have an Asturo eco but mine is set up to run
   off a 2 quart pressure pot, so I also have a Walcom gravity feed cup gun that I use to spray
   shellac and waterborne lacquer. Having only the 3/8" hose to deal with is really a lot less
   hassle and I really love the performance of the Walcom gun. Call Jeff at Homestead and you will get all the info you need to make an informed decision.

   Ron

1. 
   tangomike | Jan 26, 2006 08:18pm | #8

   the pressure pot setup is the way to go for larger pieces, that will be my next investment.

1. 
   Ronaway | Jan 26, 2006 08:42pm | #9

   The pressure pot setup is great if you are standing in one spot and doing a lot of spraying
   and also gives you the ability to turn the gun upside down if needed. I bought it while doing
   some contract refinishing on 265 courtroom seats. For almost everything that I do in the shop I prefer the cup gun whether the piece is large or small.Ron

1. 
   tangomike | Jan 26, 2006 10:08pm | #10

   I use a gravity feed top gun for almost all of my work, but for "inside work" the lack of maneuverability can be a pain. I also like cup guns for being easier to clean and less waste.