HVLP Virgin/Help

[Robert Coats]

I have a HVLP gun I've never used, but would like to start. Some good information at this thread (HVLP paint guns: Pro? any cons?) but I have a few more specific questions.

(1) I want to paint some wood and metal fixtures. The wood is bare plywood, and the metal is sheet metal with a semi-gloss paint on it already. After a good sanding and cleaning of dust, what other prep is necessary?

(2) Can the same paint and primer be used for both bare wood and (already painted) metal?

(3) I understand automotive-type paints are really expensive. I would be happy with just some standard, plain/simple colors to start. What exact kinds of paint and primer are a good choice for HVLP work?

(4) How much to buy? The initial project's painted area is probably equal to about a half-sheet of plywood.

(5) I assume you have to thin the paint/primer to get it thin enough to flow through the HVLP gun? How do you do this? Is there a ratio/rule-of-thumb?

(6) The final finish needs to be high-gloss. What is the suggested lacquer to use for HVLP? Does it need to be thinned like the paint/primer, or what?

(7) What is the thinking about ambient temp? How cold is "too cold" to get good results from an HVLP gun?