discussion Clean-up after SMS paints

[Flip]

Hi guys,

Just doing some spoon testing and going to try the SMS paints I've had for a bit. In particular PL15 (Red Oxide)

Just wondering what folks use to clean down the AB after use.

I've got MLT and Tamiya lacquer thinners - would prefer not to have another proprietary one if (say) MLT will do.

Regards,
John

 

[Tim Marlow]

I’ve used MLT to clean the airbrush for the SMS I have used. Tamiya lacquer thinners would probably work as well but I don’t have any so can’t say for sure.

 

[Jim R]

I do as Tim does. I do finish with a spray through of Premi Air Liquid Reamer though.

 

[Nicko]

I think MLT is a bit too good for cleaning, especially as it sometimes becomes unavailable. It's also pretty expensive. I use cheap cellulose thinners which will clean up after pretty much any paint. And it costs about the same for 5 litres as 400ml of MLT. After the swill out and blow through with the cellulose, I just run through a bit of the thinner for the next lot of paint and it's usually MLT....

Nick

 

[Flip]

Thanks chaps...I'll give it a go
Appreciate your input

John

 

[Gern]

I think MLT is a bit too good for cleaning, especially as it sometimes becomes unavailable. It's also pretty expensive. I use cheap cellulose thinners which will clean up after pretty much any paint. And it costs about the same for 5 litres as 400ml of MLT. After the swill out and blow through with the cellulose, I just run through a bit of the thinner for the next lot of paint and it's usually MLT....

Nick

Does that have any effect on the seals in your A/B? I have used cellulose thinners on bits which have no seals, but I've had issues with seals in the past so I'm reluctant to go with it.

 

[Nicko]

They still seem to be going strong. H&S and Ultimate Apex.....

Nick

 

[Tim Marlow]

Does that have any effect on the seals in your A/B? I have used cellulose thinners on bits which have no seals, but I've had issues with seals in the past so I'm reluctant to go with it.

Depends on your airbrush I think Dave. The better quality ones have seals that are impervious to any solvent, and are sold as such. Certainly my Iwatta is. I’ve used cellulose thinners through it with no issues. I tend to use MLT because it smells a little less.

 

[Nicko]

With you on that last point Tim. Respirator, extractor and down the bottom of the garden in the workshop for that stuff.

Nick