Single Stage Paints vs. Clearcoats

[tdun824259]

This winter I plan to have my car repainted.  I believe in 1971 the paints used even by mercedes were single stage paints that you buffed in order to achieve a beautiful shine.  With the advent of clearcoats I'm wondering if that is still the way to go.  Can you look at two vehicles, one painted each way and tell the difference?  I'm also grappling with the extent of the repaint.  Body off or ...?  Any thoughts would be appreciated.
Thanks
Tim
tdun824259
1971 280 SL
291/291

[ja17]

Hello,

I am not talking about clearcoats guys, I am taking about new two stage paints  (urethanes with second stage hardners etc.) versus the old single stage paints like original laquers and sythetic enamels.

There are a lot of choices for "modern " paint systems. Clearcoating is and option also base coat/clearcoat system (most often used for best results with metallics these days). If you are merely applying a clear coat over a color you will have a wetter look.

I guess I do not understand exactly what your painter is intending on?


Joe Alexander
Blacklick, Ohio

[n/a]

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I had the same decision to make 3 years ago and chose to go Glasurit single stage. Looks absolutely factory and plenty glossy.

Can't imagine base / clear looking better on this car and was worried about a "gel cap" look, to quote someone on this board.

That would take away from the vintage feel and do you really need the added protection on a pleasure car?

I would consider clear coat only on black, red or metallic colors.

Pete
 
 

[Raymond]

Joe is exactly right.  The skill of the person who will do the work is the most important.  

A case can be made for either paint technique.  I just got my 280SL out of the paint shop this week.  The fellow doing the work said that he would be more comfortable with a clear coat, and he thought it would be best for the classic white.  The car looks great, even without the chrome.  I had my Acura painted three years ago by a guy who did a great job with a super white single stage.  It has held up quite well with the car parked in the Florida sun every day.

Either way, today's paints are far supeior to those of just a few years ago.  So, what was true in 1995 has probably changed.

I didn't do a body off, however I pulled the engine for a rebuild and had the engine bay done along with the trunk interior.

Ray
'68 280SL 4-spd Coupe

[Chad]

I've been talked into the clear coat. I hope it's an okay choice.


-CD-
1967 230SL, 113.042 10
1983 300TDT, WDBAB 93A7DN

[Benz Dr.]

We use base clear on the outside of the car. The inside of the doors get single stage because it's hard to clear areas like that and get the clear on evenly.
Either should give you 10 years of great shine. Try that with enamel.

Dan Caron's
 SL Barn
benzbarn@ebtech.net
 slbarn.mbz.org