Size matters but flow is important too
MIKE:
You asked: Compressor - is the 30 gallon sufficient? The gallon size is one measurement (the more the better), but the cfm is the more important measurement if you're planning to paint a lot of items of any size. A compressor with a cfm rating of 7 or more should work OK if you're not trying to shoot the entire plane in one non stop session.
In addition, the regulator is very important because almost every compressor will lose pressure during operation, but if the regulator at the gun is a good one from a painting supply store, it will maintain the pressure at your hvlp gun until the compressor lbs falls below the pressure reqd.
If you're planning to paint, make sure the environment is conducive for a quality job. No dust, no bugs, plan to install a water removal device in series with the air, the compressor air source should be OUTSIDE the paint booth, the more lights the better, and don't forget your lungs.
Practice is always advisable. If the compressor gives you a choice of voltage, select 220.
I painted my 9A over a three week period. Prior to each shoot, I'd set up jigs to enable me to handle the parts in the booth (my garage) w/o touching them. The second day was for painting and the third day we tore it all apart and stored the completed parts AWAY from the workshop. I have two compressors feeding one 60 gal tank. Just in case my 7hp compressor died during the job, my little 2 hp could get me thru the session (albeit VERY slowly). The only thing worse than running out of paint is a compressor that dies half way thru the job.
My only regret was not painting the fuse whilst it was on the rotisserie. Painting upside down to get to the bottom of the fuse is for young men and achieving a "flow" is more difficult in awkward positions. My hvlp gun has a baggie system to permit upside down work, but it's a lot easier to rotate the target than to work on the floor.
Decent paint jobs cost $6k++ so spending a few more $$ on better equipment makes sense plus think of all the hangar buddies you will make when they learn you can paint (hahaha).
Email if you want more help. That's what this site is all about.
