Reddit reviews Dupli-Color DE1636 Ceramic Clear Engine Paint - 12 oz.

It's pretty basic really, but I described it below with lots of words. I typically either use Dupli-Color or VHT paints, because they have worked well in the past, I buy whichever matches my color needs.

Standard paint "system" is Primer, Paint and Clear Coat


I start with sanding the part lightly, usually 220 grit sand paper, followed by steel wool (to get all the corners), then cleaning, first soap and water, then greased lightning, then acetone. I wear nitrile gloves while doing the cleaning to avoid putting skin oils on the part. Then I let it dry (usually for an hour, to be sure).

For AR's I typically hook a clothes hanger or other wire through the takedown pin hole to make it easier to hold up and spray it. Personally, I do 5-10 lighter coats to avoid drips (because sanding an AR upper sucks) every 2-3 minutes then I usually wait 2-3 hours (usually watch a movie or go workout) and paint the color. Typically for the color I also do 5-10 light coats every 2-3 minutes instead of following the directions on the can. My rule of thumb is 3-4 coats past the point where no primer is visible. I then let this dry overnight for easier handling.

For baking, I suspend it in the oven while the oven is cool, heat the oven to 400F, hold 400F for 1 hour, then turn the oven off and let it cool with the door closed. I typically suspend AR parts by the takedown holes so it is in the center of the oven and not touching anything. I've done up to 4 parts at a time (2 upper, 2 lower) with no issues.

Take it out once cooled, and then I usually very light buff the surface (800+ grit) and spray on the clear coat. Usually I again do 5-10 coats quickly (again, avoiding drips). No good rule of thumb on the clearcoat other than "does it look completely covered?"

Then I repeat the baking process exactly the same way (400F for 1 hour, plus cooldown time) and I'm done.

You can but a enamel clear coat to protect it - Before spraying the cover, try and test a small piece before applying the enamel. fyi
http://www.amazon.com/Dupli-Color-DE1636-Ceramic-Clear-Engine/dp/B000GKEXW0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1319598525&sr=8-1
Can be bought at any local Auto store.

I did my VC recently. I believe its recommended to use the high temp engine paint. Rustoleum engine enamel works well. I like to top it off with some Duplicolor high temp clear coat.

https://www.amazon.com/Rust-Oleum-248932-Automotive-12-Ounce-Degree/dp/B002JG01VQ/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=high+temp+engine+paint&qid=1555428236&s=gateway&sr=8-4

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https://www.amazon.com/Dupli-Color-EDE163607-Ceramic-Clear-Engine/dp/B000GKEXW0/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=high+temp+engine+paint&qid=1555428172&s=gateway&sr=8-3