Official Luthiers Forum!

I noted this item in the Woodcraft sale brochure for March:

Cheap HVLP unit

I've always put off getting a real sprayer because of the cost. What are the chances that this could serve for the light duty I'm likely to subject it to (1 or 2 guitars a year, probably.)

Jim

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Jim Kirby
kirby@udel.edu

Jim...Rockler has a similar model. I have sprayed Nitro as well as KTM-9 and got acceptable results. It takes a bit of practice to get the flow and coverage right if you've never sprayed before. It doesn't produce the results an expert finisher can achieve with a high quality rig but it's far better than rattle cans. Worst case, you'll have to do a bit more wet sanding. I recommend it if you have a suitable place to spray.

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JJ
Napa, CA
http://www.DonohueGuitars.com

I got a cheap compressor from Kragen's Auto, with a big tank, but was lucky to pay only 50 dollars for it on clearance. Haven't used it yet but I'm sure it'll work. I also have a set of budget HVLP sprayer guns, which included one nice mini one I used on my first guitar, that I payed $69.00 for. Can't get much more affordable than that I don't think. And HVLP is the way to go. Just make sure your compressor fits the pressure requirements, which is different than on a typical construction pancake compressor for instance. I forget the exact specs, but I know it has to do with CFPM's and PSI's, and I think you want more air at a lower pressure, thus "High Volume Low Pressure". I actually sprayed my first one using my pancake that I have for carpentry work, turning it off and on to keep pressure at around forty or something. At least it got me started, and my finish was quite nice.
That unit you're looking at sure looks good. Usually that style isn't less than 2 or 3 hundred dollars. I'm not sure if I trust what they say about maneuvering that hose though. You really need to get around a guitar when it's hanging. I probably would've bought one if I knew about it.

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"Preoccupation with an effect gives it power and enhances the error"
from "Your Owner's Manual" by Burt Hotchkiss.

The little turbine systems have an adatage in that they don't use conventional compressed air. The risk of moisture is lower and they can work ok. As JJ pointed out it is the art of finding the right nozzle and air combination.
   It is after all . not what you put on,but what you let on. I have both and I use both. I have a higher end unit so I can't say how well this one will work but I think you can make it do what you need.
Lacquer is a more friendly medium to spray
john hall
blues creek guitars

Here's my compressor(pawn shop special)!

This is my regulator and moisture traps...

I think I have about 300 bucks in it all.

And see here, it actually works!

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Anderson Guitars
Clearwater,Fl. 33755