Guys,
1. This is RATTLE CAN paint! It will most likely fall short of 20 points at the North East Regional Champs (AKA Nats;-). But its relatively inexpensive, works fast, easy to use, and overall it works well.
2. It is not as good as a high Zoot $20,000 auto paint system with O2 etc. But it will still give a beautiful finish that is good enough for 95% of CLPA modelers.
3. There is NO paint system on the planet that will make the other 5% completely happy!
4. Howard your not alone, I think most CL guys do the same based on one of the most common CL sayings: "..... Directions? We don't need no stinking Directions!"
5. Bob, I can 2nd Dennis's advice. The Clear coat really helps everything; great "shinny", Red stays Red, and it seals all decals etc. I would not use this paint without the clear coat, even with ECL.
6. Their web site painting tips are excellent. Two of the most important are:
1. YOU MUST HEAT THIS PAINT JUST BEFORE USE AND DURING USE!!! I use very hot tap water in a cut out gallon bleach container. I keep replacing the hot water during the painting so the can is ALWAYS warm. This is CRITICAL to making this paint work well.
2. YOU MUST SHAKE UNTIL YOUR LEFT ARM FALLS OFF!!! Don't use our right arm, you need it to paint with. ;-) ...... shake until your arm is sore, then shake some more. Shake frequently after each part is painted.
7 You MUST "always" use their undercoat paint, please do NOT use substitutes unless you are an expert and your name is Mark and you are a professional artist/painter!
8. Painting LustreKote over MonoKote works well, IF you follow their instructions, TIGHTEN 1st, rough up surface with steel wool, and use THEIR undercoat, etc.
9. I am NOT a paint expert, but I do follow directions well and I have always had very good results with this paint on several large (28+lb.) planes.
10. Like in all things: ...... Your milage may vary.
Here is the link to the Painting Tips site:
http://www.monokote.com/lustrekote/painting-tips/topr7200tip1.htmlPlease go to the bottom of the tip page and click on the continue: xxxxxxxx for the next tip.
Regards,