Expert: Gary - 9/14/2011

Question
I have a 1996 vehicle.  I have some surface rust spots that I would like to fix.  In addition to that I would like to apply a tinted clear coat after finishing with my painting.  I have sanded the rust spots and wondered if I need to use a rust inhibitor or if primer is enough?  After using a spray primer I planned on using a spray paint that matches my color.  Is spray paint the best option rather than liquid brush paint?  Will I need to sand the spray paint after applying?  I am assuming that my original clear coat is gone after all of this time and that I can then apply my tinted clear coat.  Do I need to wait more than one day to apply the clear after spray painting?

Answer
Hi Brian,

Some type of corrosion protection primer is recommended. I recommend a primer called Zero-Rust. It will stop rust from growing and give you a great surface to paint over.

When using an automotive grade paint, I always recommend that it be sprayed for best results. If you are applying a clear-coat over most finishes you shouldn't need to sand unless you wait over 24 hours then you would have to sand and possibly even reapply the color.

The clear-coat will need to be applied after your color has dried at least 1 hour and no more than 24 hours.

Here are some links that will hopefully be helpful to you:

http://www.repaintsupply.com/pd-zero-rust-dtm-primer-aerosol.cfm
http://www.repaintsupply.com/cat_aerosol_touch-up_paint.cfm
http://www.repaintsupply.com/pd_2_part_2k_aerosol.cfm