Stepping into the realm of automotive restorations or custom paint jobs can be a daunting endeavor. Your choice of paint is crucial—it defines the aesthetics, durability, and overall value of your project. In my own journey through the vast sea of automotive paints, I’ve had the opportunity to engage with Kirker Automotive Finishes—a brand that has made its mark in the industry. Engaging with these products has been a vivid part of my restoration adventures, and I’m here to share insights, experiences, and an unbiased review of Kirker’s line-up for enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Understanding the Spectrum of Kirker Paints
Kirker automotive paint products have been lauded for their quality and affordability, offering a wide selection for different needs—from primers and sealers to topcoats and clear coats. Here’s a comprehensive exploration of various products I’ve personally tested and evaluated.
Kirker Ultra-Glo Acrylic Urethane: The Cornerstone
My experience with the Ultra-Glo series has been quite exceptional. This line of single-stage paints has provided me with an arsenal of rich, deep colors yielding a high-gloss finish without always necessitating a clear coat.
Performance: The UV protection is commendable, and the color retention over time relieves one of the constant worry of fading—something I had struggled with in cheaper alternatives. The paint flow and leveling properties made application significantly smoother, reducing the often-laborious buffing stage.
The Challenge: While Ultra-Glo levels well, mastering the application technique does require some finesse, and I did encounter a learning curve to attain the professional finish I sought. Additionally, being a single-stage paint, it’s not without limitations when it comes to repairing scratches or chips where a two-stage paint might be more forgiving.
Pros:
- Exceptional gloss and UV stability
- Good coverage with fewer coats required
- Diverse color palette
Cons:
- Application technique requires practice
- Chip and scratch repair can be more complex compared to two-stage systems
The Enduro Prime Epoxy Primer: A Strong Foundation
Prior to laying down any color, a robust and adherent primer is crucial, and Kirker’s Enduro Prime has served my projects dependably. As a two-component system, it provides excellent adhesion and corrosion resistance, which is particularly beneficial on bare metal surfaces.
Personal Experience: Applying this primer has been relatively straightforward for me. It fills and sands well, which is indispensable when achieving a base that’s as smooth as glass. The mix ratio is simple, and I found it has a workable pot life, allowing for a flexible working window.
Drawbacks: In one instance, I faced slight bubbling, which I later attributed to not allowing full flash-off time between coats. It was a reminder of the importance of strictly adhering to the recommended recoat times.
Pros:
- Excellent adhesion and fill properties
- Easy to sand for a smooth finish
- Good working time balance between pot life and cure time
Cons:
- Meticulous attention to recoat times is necessary to avoid issues
Kirker Clear Coats: Sealing the Deal
The finale in many paint applications is the clear coat, and Kirker’s range doesn’t disappoint. Their clear coats, like the Euro Klear, provide a hard-wearing finish and a depth of shine that truly amplifies the underlying color.
Usage Experience: During my work with Kirker’s clear coats, I was particularly impressed with how forgiving they were of minor application imperfections, such as runs or orange peel, which could be sanded out and buffed back to a mirror finish with relative ease.
Potential Hurdles: A consistent challenge was monitoring temperature and humidity levels, as extremes could affect the final outcome. Moreover, high-quality clear coats can be susceptible to scratches if not handled with care post-application, something to keep in mind during assembly or transport.
Pros:
- Excellent leveling properties
- Robust final layer that provides depth and gloss
- Forgiving of application imperfections
Cons:
- Environmental conditions affect the application more than other products
- Can be sensitive to scratches during the final curing stages
Final Verdict on Kirker Automotive Paints
Kirker Automotive Paint offers a strong and reliable option for both seasoned professionals and hobbyists. The brand’s focus on quality, consistency, and durability align with what most look for in a paint selection. My personal experiences with various Kirker products have revealed the depths of their usability, as well as the challenges faced during application. Still, the end results have consistently impressed.
Overall Pros:
- High quality at an affordable price point
- Exceptional finish and color selection
- Good balance between workability and performance
Overall Cons:
- Requires practice to perfect application techniques
- Environmental sensitivity during application can be challenging for new users
Finally, it’s essential to remember that preparation is key, and while Kirker products alleviate many common paint problems, they still demand a level of care and dedication. The outcome, though, is invariably worth the effort—an enduring, eye-catching finish that stands the test of time and elements.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Where is kirker paint made?
Kirker paint is made in Paterson, New Jersey, USA. The company has been manufacturing automotive paints and related products since 1922.
2. Is Sikkens a good automotive paint?
Yes, Sikkens is known for producing high-quality automotive paints that provide excellent durability and a smooth finish. Many professional auto body shops use Sikkens products for their superior performance.
3. Does DuPont still make automotive paint?
No, DuPont’s automotive paint division was sold to Axalta Coating Systems in 2013. Axalta continues to produce automotive coatings under the DuPont name, but they are now a separate entity from the original DuPont company.
4. Who makes Summit Racing single stage paint?
Summit Racing Equipment manufactures its own line of single stage paint, which is specifically designed for automotive applications. Their paints are known for their ease of use and professional results.