Originally Posted by
ddeand
On the bike I’m doing, the base coat will have cured for quite a while, and I’m still trying to decide if I want to get repro decals. The color is non-original, but I’d still like to identify the frame. I also have started the process of smoothing out the base coat - 400/600/800/1200 grit sandpaper followed by rubbing and polishing compound. I’ll get a good respirator and wait for some warmer weather or maybe try to find a spray booth to use. I’ve also thought about buying a very cheap, used 4-6 person tent to use as a spray booth in my garage. Again, I appreciate the thorough advice.
To do a proper paint job the base coat should be sealed with the clear within the "critical recoat time," typically 24 hours. Further, the base coat should not be sanded. Failing to follow these steps will affect the durability of the finish. Lastly, with catalyzed urethane paint you don't want to inhale too many fumes, even with a charcoal spray mask, thus painting outdoors with good ventilation is recommended. If you get a dust spec here and there sand it out and polish. That's better than breathing the fumes.