Snowplows receive a lot of hard use during a busy season and wear and tear can take their toll. Maintaining a snowplow is much less expensive than replacing it or making significant repairs. So, it’s important to take time to inspect and service the mechanical parts of your plow as well as refinish rusty components.

General Snowplow Maintenance

• Check to be sure all fasteners are properly tightened.
• Inspect electrical connections to be sure they’re not loose or corroded.
• Be sure all the moving contact points are properly greased.
• The plows cutting edge must be in proper condition to cut through snow, as well as it needs to be able to protect the moldboard. If a cutting edge is worn down to four inches or less, it’s typically ready for replacement.
• If your snowplow has plow shoes check to be sure they can keep your blade off the ground. If they can’t, be sure to replace them.
• Inspect the plow and vehicle mounts for cracks.

Keep Rust from Forming on the Snowplow Blade

The best way to avoid rust damage is to keep rust from forming in the first place. After use, especially after being in contact with salt, wash the snowplow blade, frame and other components to remove dirt and corrosives.

Steps to Refinish a Rusty Snowplow

If you find the moldboard, frame or attachment components have been scratched down to bare metal, you can be sure rust will begin to form. Spot damage repairs, as well as complete piece refinishing can be done with RustSeal. RustSeal is a very hard and durable coating that stops rust. It can handle the rigors of snowplow duty and is able to be brushed, rolled, or sprayed on. The coating flows out well, so if it’s brushed or rolled on it won’t leave brush marks.

BlackTop is a UV stable (does not chalk or fade in sunlight) topcoat that goes over RustSeal well and is ideal for the moldboard, frame or attachment components. BlackTop comes in Gloss, OEM Satin Black, or Flat allowing you to pick your desired sheen.

• The first step to refinish a rusty snowplow is thoroughly cleaning the area to be painted of any dirt, grease, salt, or other contaminants that could interfere with the adhesion of RustSeal. KBS Klean is recommended. KBS Klean is a powerful, water-based, and biodegradable cleaner.
• Next, remove any loose, scaling rust with sandpaper or a wire brush or wheel.
• If the paint or coating is loose and peeling or bubbling it will need to be removed before painting as the bond of RustSeal is only as strong as the surface to that which it’s adhered.
• If you are going to be applying RustSeal on top of an existing paint or coating, you’ll first need to scuff it, so RustSeal has a surface to bite to. This can be done with 320 grit sandpaper. Sand just enough so that the surface has a dulled appearance. If it’s shiny the RustSeal won’t adhere as well as it could.
• Wash the surface again with KBS Klean to be sure all debris and residues are removed.
• Next use RustBlast to prepare the metal for RustSeal. RustBlast is a powerful rust remover, zinc phosphate pre-primer, and metal etch that treats the metal to provide a surface to which RustSeal can strongly bond.
• Next, apply RustSeal to the treated area. For this application it’s recommended to apply a minimum of 3 thin covering coats.
• Detailed information on use of KBS Klean, RustBlast, and RustSeal can be found HERE.
• Lastly, finish off the snow plow with KBS MAXX which comes in plenty of colors and can be brushed or rolled to give an incredibly durable finish that will not chalk or fade. KBS MAXX is the ideal snow plow paint because of its brillance and long term durability.

Maintaining a snowplow is much less expensive than replacing it or making significant repairs. It’s important to take time to inspect and service the mechanical parts of your plow and refinish a rusty snowplow as necessary.

DiamondFinish Clear is the ideal clear coat for wooden countertop restorations. DiamondFinish Clear bites and adheres well to the clear that is already on the countertop and because DiamondFinish Clear is tough and durable, it is able to take the abuse that comes with being a countertop surface. DiamondFinish Clear is also chemically resistant, so cleaning agents can easily be used to clean the countertops as often as needed. The mirror-like finish will have everyone talking!

How to Detail Your Engine and Engine Bay with KBS Klean

A clean engine bay looks great and makes it easier to spot leaks and other issues if they arise. If you want to detail your engine bay for shows, simpler maintenance, or just to make your daily driver look its best, KBS Klean makes the job easier. Here’s how to detail your engine and engine bay as a do-it-yourself project with KBS Klean.

1. Get Ready to Detail Your Engine Bay

• Before you start the cleaning and detailing procedure, you’ll want to make sure the engine is cool. Hot engines, radiators, exhaust, etc. can cause burns. Plus, heat can cause cleaners to evaporate quickly. So, play it cool…
• There’s going to be a lot of water sprayed on the engine and in the engine bay. So, to avoid electrical shorts or other damage to electrical components it’s a good idea to disconnect the cable from the negative battery terminal.
• Another measure to protect under hood electrical components, as well as other parts like open element air cleaners is to cover them. This can be done with plastic bags or plastic wrap.
• Gather needed items.
  • KBS Klean
  • Bucket
  • Sponge
  • Scrub pad and/or a scrub brush with a handle to be get down low and in tight spots
  • Plastic bags and/or plastic wrap
  • Goggles and rubber gloves
  • Terry cloth towels
  • Air compressor (if available)

2. Clean (Klean) the Engine and Engine Bay

• Now comes the cleaning. To remove dirt and grease you’ll need to need scrub the engine and engine bay down with an all-purpose cleaner/degreaser or commercial engine cleaner. KBS Klean is a great choice. KBS Klean is a concentrated high-strength cleaner that’s water based and biodegradable. It’s made to thoroughly remove dirt, grease and grime and other contaminants.
• Mix KBS Klean and warm water in a bucket. The KBS Klean and water solution can be prepared in different ratios, depending on the degree of grunge and contaminants that need to be cleaned off as well as the type of materials it’s being applied to. Typically, cars and trucks have many non-ferrous metals like aluminum and brass under hood. So, we recommend using a water to KBS Klean ratio of 25 to 1. Remember to use warm water, as the warmer the water is the better KBS Klean will work.
• Be safe out there. Wear goggles and rubber gloves when you detail your engine and engine bay.
• You can use a sponge to scrub down the engine bay, and if needed a scrub pad or bristle brush can be used to speed up removal of heavy gunk. For the most effective cleaning, wash the surface for 5-10 minutes. Keep the solution wet, don’t allow it to dry on the surface.
• KBS Klean can also be used with power washers, just make sure the pressure isn’t too high. Start with a 25° nozzle and if required, switch to a 40° nozzle. Stand back at least three feet as pressure washing from a close range can damage parts. Be careful not to get the solution into electrical components and their connections.
• After you’ve finished cleaning an area rinse it thoroughly with water. Once your completely done allow the engine and engine bay to dry thoroughly. Wiping them down with a terry cloth towel will speed things up and compressed air will make it go even quicker.
• Now you can remove the plastic bags or wrap, as well as reconnect the cable to the negative battery terminal. If dirty areas were left under the protective covers, they can be carefully wiped down with a rag to remove and dirt or grime.

3. Dress It Up

• The final step to detail your engine and engine bay is to provide a shine and a deep and lustrous appearance with engine bay dressing. There are many products to choose from which are available in different formulations with some being oil based and others acrylic based. Oil based products are typically stickier than acrylic based, which can cause them to catch dirt and dust than acrylic.
• Engine bay dressings can apply differently. Some products are a spray on and leave it application, while others are sprayed onto a cloth or sponge and then applied to the engine and engine bay. Spray on and leave it products allow quick coverage, while those applied with a cloth or sponge allow more control of where the dressing is placed. Follow the use instructions of the product you choose.

A clean engine bay looks great and makes a car or truck easier to maintain. Using KBS Klean as part of this process to detail your engine makes the job easier.

The Best Way to Paint Brake Rotors and Restore Brake Rotors

Brake rotors have a big impact on how your wheels look. Beautiful wheels with rusted rotors peeking through just don’t scream wow. Yet, rust-free rotors with painted rotor hats can make all the difference. Plus, they make the car or truck look maintained. If your rotor hats are rusty, here is how to clean, prep, prime and paint brake rotors to achieve a quality and long-lasting result. It’s easy to do, they’ll look great, and it’s much cheaper than buying new rotors.

Before you paint the brake rotor hub it needs to be properly prepared so the brake rotor paint will strongly bond. To start, rust needs to be removed from the rotor hat. This can be done by sanding, sandblasting or by chemical means. While sanding or chemical removal can be done with the rotor still on the vehicle, sandblasting will require removal of both the rotor and caliper. So, keep in mind that performing the job with the rotor on the car is easier. Here we’re going to describe painting the brake rotors while still on the car.

1. Start by eliminating loose or flaking rust from the rotor hat with sandpaper or a wire wheel. Be careful not to gouge or scratch the friction surface of the rotor. While you want to remove as much rust as possible, there’s no need to completely bring it down to perfectly rust-free metal. RustBlast, described in step three, will handle this.
2. Next comes cleaning the rotor hat. Brake cleaner is traditionally used to clean off brake dust and debris and works well but is a harsh and toxic option. So, we’re using KBS Klean, a strong cleaner that is water based, non-toxic and biodegradable. Once mixed with water, use it along with a scrub brush to remove all dirt, grime, and brake dust. It works as well as brake cleaner and is safer to use.
3. Step three before you paint the brake rotor hat is to address any remaining rust and prepare the surface for best adhesion of the brake rotor paint. In this case we are using RustBlast, which dissolves rust and it micro etches the metal surface with a texture which allows paint to best grab onto the metal. RustBlast is sprayed on and then scrubbed with a brush or scrub pad. RustBlast also leaves a zinc phosphate coating on the metal that prevents flash rusting.
4. It’s important that you don’t get paint on the friction surface of the brake rotor as it can interfere with contact between the rotor and the brake pads. This can affect braking as well as damage the pads. So, before painting cover the friction surface of the rotor with masking tape. Also cover the brake caliper and wheel studs while you’re at it.

When deciding what paint to use on brake rotors, it’s important to choose a product that can handle high temperatures. We are using KBS Xtreme Temperature Coating Primer followed by KBS Xtreme Temperature Coating. Both are in aerosol version. Keep in mind it’s not necessary that every bit of rust is removed before applying the primer as it is very capable of bonding to and permanently sealing any remaining rust.

1. KBS Xtreme Temperature Coating Primer is silicone based and can handle temperatures up to 1200° Fahrenheit. It acts like galvanization and locks onto the metal to provide a surface for best bonding of Xtreme Temperature Coating. Apply two thin covering coats, allowing 15 minutes drying time between coats.
2. Next comes the Xtreme Temperature Coating, a high temperature paint intended for brake rotors which handles temperatures up to 1500° F. After waiting 30 minutes for the primer to dry, apply at least 2 thin covering coats and allow at least 15 minutes in between coats. After your done painting, wait 30 minutes for it to dry and remove the masking tape.
3. The final step is heat curing for maximum paint hardness and adhesion. After letting the primer and paint cure in ambient temperature for 12 hours drive the vehicle a few times to heat up the rotors and allow them to come back down to room temperature naturally.

Keep in mind that painting the rotor hats isn’t just for rotors that have been used. Painting new rotors to prevent rust can avoid the rust problem to begin with.

KBS Coatings offers all the products used in our project to clean, prep, prime and paint the brake rotor hats in the KBS Brake Rotor Restoration Kit. Xtreme Temperature Coating is available in many colors for ultimate customization.

Brake rotors have a big impact on the appearance of wheels. Taking time to paint your brake rotors can help make them look their best.

How to Stop Rust and Prevent Rust

Rust can quickly damage metal if not stopped right away. It has ruined countless automobiles over the years. Back in the day, I experienced the rusty death of my 1973 Camaro due to road salt. That was a hard lesson and made me realize rust is the enemy. It damages so many things made of ferrous metal like fasteners, wrought iron fences, storage tanks, and construction equipment just to name a few. But the enemy can be defeated. Let’s talk about how to stop rust.

Stop Rust from Forming

The best way to stop rust is to keep it from developing in the first place. That means keeping the metal separated from air, moisture, and corrosives like the previously mentioned evil road salt. With a little attention rust can often be avoided.

• Keep the metal coated with paint, oil, or rust preventative coatings that will keep air, moisture, and corrosives from reaching it.
• Keep surfaces clean. Wash off dirt, debris, road salt, and other contaminants. Be sure moisture holding debris is removed from where it can build up like nooks, recesses, and inside rocker panels. Be sure drain holes, designed to keep water from collecting in cavities and recesses, are not plugged.
• Touch up chips and scratches in the paint or protective coating right away before rust can take hold.

Can You Stop Rust Once It Starts?

A common question is “will rust stop if kept dry?”. In real world conditions keeping metal dry will slow down rust, but it won’t completely stop it. Think of those old, abandoned cars sitting exposed in the desert. They’re bone dry most all the time, but they do rust albeit very slowly. As previously mentioned, rust forms due to a chemical reaction between metal, oxygen, and water. Unless ALL water vapor in the air is removed, there will still be moisture to react with oxygen and the metal, causing rust.

“Can you stop rust from spreading?”

Once rust sets in it can be hard to stop. There are stopgap measures to slow it down a bit, like spraying on a rust penetrant like WD-40 to dissolve the rust down to bare metal. But it needs to be resprayed often to prevent further rust, as it can quickly wear off leaving the metal exposed to further rusting.

Immediately and properly using touch-up paint to fix chips and scratches which have begun to rust is important to keep it from spreading. Since rust starts forming as soon as metal is exposed, care must be taken to ensure any rust within the chip or scratch is removed before using touch-up paint. For the most effective results the repair should be made as soon as the damage is noticed.

The traditional way to stop rust on metal that has not been weakened or perforated is to sand, sandblast, or use rust remover to eliminate rust down to bare metal, and then follow up with an application of primer and top coat. However, there are those who seek other options to stop rust without sanding and refinishing, as it can be a labor intensive and skill intensive process especially if the area to be repaired is large.

A measure to stop rust once it has started, without sanding and refinishing the metal, is to use rust converter which is a chemical solution that can be directly applied to the rusted metal surface. KBS Rust Converter is formulated with phosphoric acid to convert rust into a ferric phosphate inert layer. Tannic acid in the converter then produces a protective bluish-black ferric tannate inert primer layer. The result is a tough coating that prevents further rusting. It can stand alone to protect against exterior weather conditions or be painted over for a better appearance.

Another simple way to stop rust while also getting an excellent finish is to use the KBS 3-Step Rust Prevention System. A major benefit is that rust does not have to be completely eliminated for the system to completely stop further rusting. The 3-Step System includes KBS Klean to thoroughly remove dirt, grease, grime, and other contaminants. Only loose, flaky rust needs to be removed before washing with KBS Klean. Removal can be done with sandpaper or a wire wheel or brush.

Next the surface is scrubbed down with RustBlast which effectively dissolves rust and corrosion from most metal surfaces. RustBlast also etches the metal for best adhesion of RustSeal rust preventative coating, which is the third step. It should also be noted RustBlast leaves a zinc phosphate coating that stops new rust from forming for up to 7 days, depending on environmental conditions. So, within that time period flash rusting won’t happen and the surface remains properly prepared for RustSeal.

RustSeal is impervious to road salts and most every chemical. It flows out to a beautiful, smooth, rock-hard, and tough ceramic-like coating that is hard to chip or scratch and will not crack or peel. What stops rust is that RustSeal seals the metal from moisture and oxygen, and without those present metal can’t rust.

How you choose to stop rust depends on how effectively you want to stop the rust in the long-term, the amount of labor you want to put into the project, and the quality of the final finish you want to achieve. The KBS 3-Step Rust Prevention System stops rust, is easy to use, and provides a beautiful final finish.

How to Achieve an Incredible Looking Finish When Applying A Moisture Cured Paint

You just applied the final coat of a moisture cured paint or coating. It’s still wet and so far, everything looks great. You call it a job well done and leave the piece to dry thoroughly. Later you come back to inspect your work and see micro bubbles have formed in the coating. Ugh! Now you must either deal with it the way it is, or sand down the bubbles and apply another coat. Keep in mind, user error is the main reason why moisture cured paints and coatings form bubbles, and it can be easily avoided.

What is a Moisture Cured Paint or Coating?

A moisture cured paint or coating is a type of coating which cures in the presence of atmospheric moisture. It forms a protective film by reacting chemically with the moisture in the air. Moisture cured paints and coatings are a one-part (1K) formulation and include clearcoats, such as DiamondFinish Clear, Rust preventative coatings, like RustSeal, BlackTop, and KBS MAXX, as well as other paints, coatings, and sealants. Among the benefits of moisture cured paints and coatings is that they withstand pooling water, produce a hard, durable, and highly reflective surface, and have good adhesion characteristics. Moisture cured coatings are popular for use in humid environments as the humidity can help rather than hinder curing, as it can with paints and coatings that aren’t moisture cured. However, excessive humidity can cause problems with the curing of moisture cured coatings, which we’ll talk about a little later.

Moisture cured paints and coatings are made up of pigments, additives, resins and solvents. Since they cure in the presence of water vapor, their formulation is solvent based, rather than water based. The solvent functions to dissolve or disperse a variety of components used in the formulation. As the paint or coating begins to dry the solvent evaporates and the resin component remains to create a hard coating that is not breathable. This advanced coatings technology helps to resist stains, contaminants, and rust.

Why Moisture Cured Paints and Coatings Can Form Bubbles

That brings us to those nasty little bubbles in the paint or coating you may have found after it dried. The bubbles are typically formed because of gas and vapor pressures within the paint or coating. This typically happens when a coat of product is applied too thick and a film, or skin, forms over the top of the still wet and solvent rich paint or coating. Much like pudding that has skinned over. The solvent gas in the wet coating has difficulty evaporating through the film and becomes trapped. Known as Solvent Entrapment, the condition forms bubbles under the skin. Blistering can also occur with moisture cured paints or coatings. This is different than bubbling and can happen when they are applied during high humidity, or on wet surfaces, meaning a wet on wet application.

The resulting bubbles eventually dry in place as the paint cures. This not only looks bad but can compromise the protection the paint or coating is intended to provide; a hard, non-breathable film that seals the material it is applied to away from moisture, oxygen, and contaminants. The bubbles can cause the coating to form a permeable Swiss cheese like structure which can allow these elements to pass through.

Tips for Applying Moisture Cured Coatings

• Avoiding paint bubbles is a matter of taking care and being patient. Instead of applying a couple of thick coats of product to get the job done quickly, time should be taken to apply it in multiple thin coats. With each coat being given sufficient time to dry and off-gas solvent. For example, with RustSeal, KBS recommends applying an additional coat once the first or consecutive coat is dry-to-the-touch and does not leave a fingerprint, which is typically within 2-6 hours depending on temperature and humidity. Applying an additional coat on top of that which has not had sufficient cure time is a sure-fire way to make the paint or coating bubble up.
• Remember to not apply moisture cured products in rainy, excessively humid conditions, or on wet surfaces.
• When brushing or rolling on moisture cured coatings it’s important to not “overwork” the brush or roller. Continually going back and forth over the paint or coating forces out the solvent gases at a faster rate than that intended by the manufacturer for proper self-leveling and curing.

In Summary

User error is the main reason why moisture cured paints and coatings can form bubbles. However, by being patient and taking care to not apply coats too thickly and allowing sufficient dry time between coats it can be avoided.

Other Uses for Truck Bed Liner

Most people think the function of polyurethane truck bed liner is just what the name implies. To coat and line the bed of a pickup truck. However, it’s not just for truck beds; there are many other uses for polyurethane truck bed liner that may surprise you.

Polyurethane Truck bed liner is a popular solution for protecting and beautifying truck beds and is available in versions that can be sprayed, rolled, and brushed on. Ease of application combined with the properties that make it great for lining truck beds also make it great solution for other applications. Many items that are likely to be damaged by impacts or the elements can be protected with the coating, and it can be applied to a variety of materials, including metal, fiberglass, and wood. Polyurethane truck bed liner can often be a more cost-effective and durable alternative to other coating solutions.

KBS Coatings offers KBS Bed Liner and KBS Bed Renu, which are tough and flexible thick black protective polyurethane coatings designed to protect against corrosion and abrasion while withstanding impacts and providing a high-grip surface. KBS Bed Liner and KBS Bed Renu provide a durable and long-lasting finish that offers excellent adhesion, UV stability, and resistance against scratches, chips, and nicks. You can see more about KBS Bed Liner Here. You can see more about KBS Bed Renu Here.

Check out this build done by Street Trucks magazine. As part of the project the bed was coated with KBS Bed Liner. It goes to show how easily it can be applied. Check out some of these other incredibly practical uses for truck bed liner.

Cars and Trucks

Along with truck beds, there are many other areas on a car or truck that can be protected with truck bed liner.

• Metal wheel wells receive much abrasion from sand, stones, and other debris. The bed liner keeps the metal protected from these impacts and protects the metal from road salt, deterring rust.
• Rocker panels can be protected much the same way
• Doors, fenders, and other body panels can be protected with this tough coating. Especially helpful for protecting off road vehicles from impacts and scratches.
• Floor pans, both on the inside of a car or truck, and on the underside, can be protected with truck bed liner
• Truck flatbeds can be coated to provide a durable and high grip surface
• Metal truck toolbox interiors can have bed liner applied to protect stored tools and equipment from scratching and abrasion. Also rust won’t form on the interior surfaces of metal toolboxes, which can transfer to tools.

Jeep coated with truck bed liner

Equipment

• Tractors receive much abuse and polyurethane truck bedliner can be used to protect vulnerable areas. Avoiding scratches and the need to perform refinishing maintenance.
• Agricultural equipment can be protected against abrasion and minor impacts
• Construction Machinery life span can be extended
• Snowplow blades can be coated with truck bed liner to keep rust at bay

Marine

• Boat trailers can be shielded from wear and rust causing moisture. The whole trailer can be coated. Including fenders and steps.
• Boat hulls can be protected from abrasion and bumps and the polyurethane truck bed liner can be submerged without losing the bond.
• Boat decks can be coated to provide a durable and high grip surface

Truck bed liner on boat hull

And More Uses

• ATV’s and UTV’s can be undercoated. As well, UTV beds can be lined.
• Trailer floors can be coated for a rugged, high traction surface
• House foundation water proofing. Who would have thought?

Bedliner on ATV

There are so many other uses for truck bed liner beyond protecting truck beds. If you are looking for a tough and easy to apply coating for your application, it just may be just what you need. +KBS Bed Liner +KBS Bed Renu

KBS Fusion FPP Flexible Plastics Primer Provides a Tight Bond

Painting flexible plastics, like bumper covers, can be hard. Flexible plastic is smooth and non-porous, so there’s little surface texture for topcoat paint to grab onto. Which can result in the paint cracking, chipping, and peeling.

This is where KBS Coatings Fusion FPP - Flexible Plastics Primer comes in. Fusion Flexible Plastics Primer is formulated to bond to flexible plastics and provide a high grip surface for topcoats to cling to. It builds a strong yet flexible base coat that moves with the surface, and ties topcoats to the plastic for a high quality and long-lasting result.

With Fusion Flexible Plastics Primer preparing the surface for topcoats can be done quickly. It applies easily, dries fast, and builds film thickness rapidly; a single light coat is usually all it takes. When needed, additional coats can be applied to hide small surface imperfections.

Fusion Flexible Plastics Primer can be block sanded after drying for 30 minutes and top coated after one hour. The gray colored aerosol primer is ideal for promoting adhesion of most varieties of topcoats with flexible surfaces including plastic, urethane, wood, fiberglass, and carbon fiber.

Painting flexible plastics can be hard, but KBS Coatings Fusion Flexible Plastics Primer makes it easy.

For more information, go to HERE.

Lure Makers Need A Quality Clear Coat

You might be making fishing lures for a hobby, producing them for profit, or both. Whether you are making lures for fun, or as part of a business, using quality lure making supplies can be the difference between an OK result and an excellent outcome.

Choosing the proper clear coat to be used on lures is important. Clear coat has more functionality than just providing a shiny final finish. What should you consider when deciding on a clear coat to add to your stock of lure making supplies?

For fishing lures, the main criteria are that the clear coat is compatible with the base coat used on the lure, that it’s hard so it will resist damage from sharp fish teeth, is flexible to remain adhered if the lure is dented (especially important with wood lures), avoids yellowing and discoloration over time, and is easy to work with. It’s also important that the clear coat is waterproof sealing wood lures away from moisture.

"Clear Coat" is a generic term for a clear, or pigmented finish that is directly applied over a substrate such as wood, metal, or plastic. It is also applied over base coats to protect the color, add "depth" to the appearance, or allow enough film thickness to allow for sanding and polishing. Clear coats prolong the useful life of any surface upon which they are applied. Commonly used clear coats include lacquer, varnish, and polyurethane.

Lacquer is a tree resin or synthetic resin dissolved in alcohol and is popular for sealing wood furniture. Clear lacquer can only be applied over lacquer base coats otherwise solvents in the clear lacquer will cause non-lacquer base coats to run. While clear lacquer brings out a rich, warm, and relatively scratch-resistant finish on deep-toned wood, it can yellow over time, which can distort the colors of the lure’s base coat. Lacquer can be tricky to work with and must be sprayed on carefully and left sit to cure after. Lacquer can be brittle and can dent easy because it's thin. Lacquer can also dry out and crack over long periods of time. Its not the best clear coat to add to your stock of lure making supplies.

Varnish is very similar to lacquer and is a resin dissolved in a liquid for applying on wood, metal, or other materials to form a hard, clear, shiny surface when dry. However, varnish easily peels and cracks or bubbles if not applied properly. Also, it is not as tough as lacquer, or as resistant to water and chemicals. As compared to lacquer, more coats need to be applied to achieve the same thickness and it takes longer to dry. Varnish also yellows with time. Water based varnish has the advantage that it can be used over paints and can be applied with a bristle brush.

Polyurethane clear coat is basically plastic in liquid form until it dries. Good quality polyurethane clear coat is a popular addition to the arsenal of lure making supplies used by most lure fabricators. This is due to its film hardness, resistance to scratches and dents (especially helpful with balsa wood), long-term durability, its ability to remain clear without yellowing, as well as user friendliness. Excellent flexibility characteristics also makes polyurethane well suited for wooden lures as it allows the clear coat to remain adhered without cracking or peeling if the wood becomes wet and swells, or the wood is dented. Polyurethane clear coats can be applied to all components of a lure including plastic, wood, and metal.

Polyurethane clear coat is offered in water-based and oil-based versions and comes in a variety of finishes from satin to glossy. Water-based polyurethane is often used due to its low odor and toxicity. It goes on clear without adding a slight darkening in base coat color appearance, and doesn’t yellow over time, which oil-based versions can do. As well it dries much faster, in some cases up to three times faster. Oil based polyurethane dents and peels easier than water based, however, some water-based versions scratch easier. When it comes to safety, a quality water-based polyurethane clear coat will have significantly lower (up to 50%) volatile organic compounds or VOCs than oil based.

Polyurethane clear coats are available in versions that can be applied with a brush or sprayed. Dipping of lures is common and polyurethane clear coats work great for that purpose. Application of water-based polyurethane differs from that of oil-based in that it applies in much thinner coats. An unlimited number of coats of water-based can be applied while only a couple layers of oil-based can be applied before scratching or chipping becomes a problem.

Polyurethane clear coats are available in 1K (one part), or 2K (two parts that need to be mixed) versions. 1K polyurethane is more user friendly as the user doesn’t require mixing which saves time and hassle.

For lure making, KBS Coatings offers DiamondFinish Clear, which is a moisture cured, crystal clear, one part urethane clearcoat that is that is UV stable, durable and extremely tough. It can perform in the toughest environments without yellowing, cracking or peeling. Because of its Advanced Cross-Linked Coatings Technology, it performs extremely well for making fishing lures. This technology makes the coating both flexible and durable. For a demonstration of DiamondFinish Clear’s flexibility and durability see our video. DiamondFinish Clear can be used with all fully cured base coats.

DiamondFinish Clear is ideal for any type of lure surface, including jig heads. When desired, it can be tinted with color, and it is also great for suspending glitter in your finishes. DiamondFinish Clear is a single component (1K) coating, which means user-friendliness with no self-mixing of two parts and can be spayed-onto lures, applied with a brush, or the lure can be dipped in the clear coat. If brushed, the coating is self-leveling, so it leaves a beautifully smooth surface without brush marks. For best performance, DiamondFinish Clear must be thoroughly stirred in circles as well as from top to bottom. See THIS VIDEO for a demonstration.

DiamondFinish Clear is a moisture cured coating. Meaning that it cures by reacting with water vapor in the air. The higher the humidity, the quicker the cure time. It is important to remember DiamondFinish Clear can be contaminated in the storage container or exposure to the air or by moisture dripping off the lure. If the lure is being dipped, it is recommended to pour off a working amount in a small jar and close-up the container of clear coat. Again, air in the atmosphere can cause DiamondFinish Clear to begin hardening in the can. To keep this from occurring KBS Paint Saver can be a useful part of your lure making supplies. KBS Paint Saver contains Argon and Nitrogen gases which are heavier than air and 100% dry. These gases are sprayed into the container of DiamondFinish Clear which displaces the air so no moist, humid air is left in the can that could cause it to prematurely cure and harden. See our video for a demonstration.

Quality lure making supplies are essential to producing quality lures. Used by hobbyists and professionals alike, DiamondFinish Clear preserves, protects and beautifies your lures, and is an important addition to your lure making supplies list.

For more information on DiamondFinish Clear click HERE.

How To Properly Open a DiamondFinish Clear Can and How To Preserve Clear Coat In The Can

Over the years, one of the most useful tips we give to our customers is how to properly open a paint can so it be sealed correctly. In the video, we show you how to properly open and close a paint can from KBS Coatings.

Because most of our paint is shipped at some point, there is a chance that the paint in the can might get between the can and the lid which can make getting the lid off more difficult than it might be with an ordinary latex paint. Latex paints do not provide nearly the adhesion that is provided with paints from KBS Coatings so that is why opening our paint cans is an essential critical first step.

In the video, we also show you how to use KBS Paint Saver. KBS Paint Saver is a proven paint preserver that allows user-friendly long-term storing of leftover paints in the original can. KBS Paint Saver keeps paints, coatings, and clear coats from skinning over in the can saving you money by allowing you to use the entire can of paint. KBS Paint Saver is environmentally safe, allows for storage of paints in their original cans, and is extremely easy to use.

At KBS Coatings, we want you to be able to make the most of your investment which is why we show you how to open and close the paint can and how to use KBS Paint Saver to preserve the paint in the can.

Get some DiamondFinish Clear or KBS Paint Saver for your project today and take your rust prevention to the next level!

Marine Paint Needs to Have Toughness, Flexibility, and Durability

Marine environments can wreak havoc on metal and the paints they are finished with. Things like boat trailers, decks, hulls, masts, and storage lockers are susceptible to the moist and often salty conditions. Wear and tear can damage paint, exposing metal, and soon rust sets in. Without stopping rust, it causes damage that can be costly to repair or require replacement of the rusted part.

To avoid damage the metal needs to be refinished immediately with marine paint. However, rust usually sets in before the job can be completed. So, what is the best way to refinish metal that is rusted? What needs to be considered when choosing a rustproof paint for marine use?

Marine paint needs to separate air and moisture from the metal to avoid oxidation, the precursor to rust. To keep air and moisture away from metal the paint must bond strongly and be hard to avoid damage from wear and tear.

Flexibility is another important quality marine paint needs to address. Flexibility allows the paint to remain bonded to the metal if it is dented, as well as when the metal expands and contracts. Durability is critical also to reduce the frequency of the metal needing to be refinished. UV stability is a primary concern as the paint will most likely have high exposure to the sun.

To maintain an impenetrable barrier that will seal the metal away from air and moisture, marine paint ultimately must have toughness, flexibility, and durability to remain uncompromised by dings and dents to the metal, as well as the elements.

KBS Coatings RustSeal performs well as a marine paint as it has the necessary toughness, flexibility, and durability needed to maintain an air and moisture proof seal with the metal. RustSeal is a single part, moisture cured, rust preventive coating. The formulation of the RustSeal makes it wholly non-porous and impervious to air, water, sea salt and chemicals. RustSeal is for use above or below the waterline and will protect metal that is underwater or exposed to constant high humidity.

KBS Coatings' Advanced Cross-Linked Coatings Technology makes RustSeal both highly-durable and flexible. Its hardness helps to avoid damage from wear and tear, while its flexibility allows it to remain bonded to metal during expansion and contraction, or if it is dented. RustSeal will not crack, flake, or peel in marine environments. Check out THIS VIDEO demonstrating RustSeal’s durability and flexibility. RustSeal is user-friendly and can be brushed on, rolled on, or sprayed on. It flows out well and is self-leveling to provide a beautiful, smooth finish without brush marks.

To achieve the best bond of RustSeal to metal, the surface needs to be properly prepared. Corrosion and organic contaminants need to be removed so that RustSeal can deeply penetrate and permanently adhere. This includes removing dirt, oil, grease and other contaminants. The surface also needs to have a texture, or etch, that allows the RustSeal to take hold. This preparation can be achieved by sand blasting. However, blasting with plastic, bead or soda media will not provide the amount of abrasion needed for direct RustSeal application. If the metal is not being sandblasted, KBS Coatings offers KBS Klean and KBS RustBlast for proper surface preparation.

KBS Klean is a concentrated, water-based, biodegradable, and non-flammable formula that cleans the surface by removing dirt, grime, oils, lubricants, grease, waxes, scum, algae, and other contaminants. KBS Klean is applied after using 320 grit sandpaper, or a wire brush or wheel to remove any loose flakey rust. After the KBS Klean procedure is complete, it is time for KBS RustBlast.

RustBlast is a powerful rust remover, zinc phosphate pre-primer, and metal etch. RustBlast dissolves rust, corrosion, metal oxides, and tarnish from most metal surfaces. Prior use of KBS Klean is important as the cleaner the surface is, the more effective RustBlast will be. RustBlast ultimately allows RustSeal to penetrate more deeply into pores in the metal to permanently seal and protect the surface.

RustSeal is not intended for use as a final marine paint finish as long-term exposure to direct UV light will cause fading of the color and sheen. RustSeal’s guaranteed rust protective properties, however, will not degrade. To protect against unwanted cosmetic changes, RustSeal can be top coated with any opaque (solid color) paint system. A popular choice is KBS Coatings Top Coater, which is included in the KBS All-In-One Kit. This user-friendly all-inclusive kit consists of KBS Klean, RustBlast, RustSeal, KBS Top Coater and KBS #1 Thinner.

KBS Top Coater is a single part, high solids paint that does not run or sag, and gives at least twice the coverage of conventional single part marine paint. Like RustSeal, KBS Top Coater can be brushed, rolled or sprayed on. Its self-leveling properties allow it flow out well, not show brush marks and provide professional looking results. KBS Top Coater is available in 16 colors.

Marine environments can wreak havoc on metal and the marine paint it is finished with. KBS Coatings provides a solution to avoid rust with a tough, long lasting and durable barrier, while providing a beautiful and professional appearing finish.

For more information on the KBS Coatings All-In-One Kit click HERE.

RustSeal - Showing the Insane Durability and Flexibility of this Rust Preventive Paint

This video shows the durability and flexibility of RustSeal by KBS Coatings. RustSeal is a superior single part, ready-to-use, rust preventive coating. RustSeal is impervious to road salts and most every chemical. RustSeal flows out to a beautiful, rock-hard, tough ceramic-like coating that is tough to chip or scratch, and will not crack or peel.

Get some RustSeal for your project today and take your rust prevention to the next level!

DiamondFinish Clear Is The Ultimate Clear Coat for Fishing Lure Makers

DiamondFinish Clear is an ultra-long lasting, moisture cured clear coat designed to add body, depth, and a rich gloss to your fishing lures.

DiamondFinish Clear is extremely durable because of its high solids content but at the same time DiamondFinish Clear always remains highly flexible.

DiamondFinish Clear is guaranteed to never yellow or crack and can be used over metal, plastic and wood as a crystal clear seal coat.

DiamondFinish Clear can be applied by dipping, by brush, and spray gun.

DiamondFinish Clear is also ideal for suspending glitter in your finishes.

Get some DiamondFinish Clear Coat for your fishing lures today and take your artwork to the next level!

DiamondFinish Clear Is The Clear Coat To Add The Bling To Your Custom Artwork

You have created your custom fishing lure and what to protect it and add Bling. Look no further than DiamondFinish Clear Coat to protect your fishing lure and provide the Bling.

DiamondFinish Clear Coat is an extremely long lasting, moisture cured clear coat. DiamondFinish Clear adds depth, body, and a rich gloss to your fishing lures.

Guaranteed to never yellow or crack, DiamondFinish Clear Coat can also be used over metal, plastic, and wood as a crystal-clear seal coat.

DiamondFinish Clear Coat is ideal for suspending glitter in your finishes.

DiamondFinish Clear Coat is highly durable due to its high solids content, but at the same time will always remain highly flexible because of advanced coatings technology.

DiamondFinish Clear Coat can be applied by brush, spray gun, or by dipping.

Get some DiamondFinish Clear Coat for your fishing lures today and take your artwork to the next level!

How To Attach The Cavity Wand to KBS Cavity Coater Aerosol

In this video, we show you how to properly attach the easy-to-use Cavity Wand to the Cavity Coater Aerosol Can.

The keys to your success are to shake the Cavity Coater Aerosol well before use, gently push straight down the spray tip while giving a slight twist, and also applying when it is between 65-80F for ideal results. Cavity Coater Aerosol sprays the best when the Cavity Coater Aerosol is between 65-80F.

Cavity Coater Aerosol is the Perfect Solution for hard-to-reach areas that are prone to rusting! Cavity Coater is a single step, super-penetrating corrosion inhibiting coating (CIC) designed for long term protection on all metal surfaces. Cavity Coater Aerosol provides a self-healing film which provides insane rust protection on hard-to-reach areas.

Candy Pigment and Flake Added To DiamondFinish Clear to Restore Jet Ski

Here are some pictures that I took. I’ll explain what I did to get the result that I wanted.

I ended up having to make my red base coat because the aluminum had been media blasted and had a really grey appearance, and the customer didn't want me to go thru the extra step in prepping the aluminum for use as my base coat for candy.

I had some really coarse silver left over from the base on the ski so that's where I started. After playing around at the mixing bank I added some base coat pigments and a little binder for color and a couple effect pigments, I ended up with the color that the customer wanted.

The next step was to mix the pigment(s) in the DiamondFinish Clear, using about 20-30% by volume. It wasn't enough to be opaque, but with 2 coats it covered.

The reason for mixing in the clear was solely for DTM adhesion and I wanted to see how far I could go with introducing a large amount of pigments with the DiamondFinish Clear.

I followed up with a urethane grade red candy concentrate that I added to a fresh batch of DiamondFinish Clear and that finished it off.

The black that you see was rattle can satin black that the customer already applied. It was fully cured. The customer stated that he wanted this gloss black, so I shot the DiamondFinish Clear right over the top.

At this point I was done, until the customer wanted me to shoot some .008 OSF Ghost Fire flake over the black sections. So, two more coats and it was buried and now I was done.

It looks great! I happy with the result and the customer is more than happy.

All in all, I have to say I really like DiamondFinish Clear. DiamondFinish Clear couldn’t be easier to shoot and I LOVE the high solids!

I have been shooting flake for years and DiamondFinish Clear is exactly what the doctor ordered! I've been looking forward to trying DiamondFinish Clear out for a couple months now and I glad I did.

-Rikk C.

KBS Coatings Motor Coater in Thunderbird Red

Whether you are restoring your car or truck, detailing it for shows, or you just want it to look its best, making sure the engine looks great is important and engine paint is a big part of that. It’s one of the first things you see when you pop the hood. If you are planning to paint your engine, have you considered what’s important for paint appearance, performance and long-term durability? Experts agree that the main qualities to pay attention to are heat resistance, gloss retention, and resistance to chipping and flaking. The paint must be formulated to meet these criteria and standard automotive paints just aren’t designed to handle harsh under hood environments.

Heat Resistance

Most good quality engine paints use an acrylic enamel formulation that provides an attractive hard glossy finish and superior heat resistance - with the ability to handle temperatures up to 450-500℉. Acrylic enamel engine paints come in variations that can be applied by spraying, rolling, or brushing, which makes them easy to work with even if the engine is still mounted in the vehicle.

Note, engine paint is different than high temperature exhaust paint, like KBS Coatings XTC, which is designed for headers, exhaust manifolds and exhaust systems, and can withstand temperatures up to 1500℉.

Gloss Retention

Acrylic enamel provides a glossy finish, and its hardness helps to avoid small scratches and scuffing that could dull the finish over time. Acrylic enamel also has excellent color retention properties.

Chipping and Flaking

Acrylic enamel paint works well on engines as it is not affected by the expansion and contraction of metal when experiencing temperature variations, like when taking an engine from cold to hot when first started. This helps keep the paint from cracking and flaking. Further, the hardness of acrylic enamel engine paint helps it resist chipping caused by things like accidental tool strikes.

Other Considerations

Engine paint also functions to protect metal from rust and corrosion. Another consideration is that the paint must be able to resist damage that could be caused by gasoline, oils, additives, degreasers, and other chemicals. 

KBS Coatings Motor Coater

KBS Coatings offers Motor Coater which meets and exceeds the above criteria and has features and benefits that make it a better choice than other engine paint brands.

KBS Coatings Motor Coater in Oldsmobile Bronze

Motor Coater is a high gloss acrylic enamel engine paint that can withstand temperatures up to 450°F. Motor Coater engine enamels provide deep, rich pigmented colors for excellent coverage. The paint meets OEM standards, will not blister, flake, crack or peel and is impervious to oil, transmission fluid, gasoline and other chemicals.

Motor Coater has excellent coverage and self-levelling properties. It flows out well without leaving brush marks and provides a beautiful finish. Motor Coater is designed to be user-friendly so that excellent results can be achieved by do-it-yourself and professional users alike.

“Motor Coater is a fantastic product that lays down thick and smooth.” Steve C. – KBS Customer

“I have been using KBS Motor Coater for a few years now. I first painted an engine block with it with professional results. I used the rest of the container to paint associated parts. I have been using it ever since. I prefer KBS Products to any of the store brands.” – M. Moran – KBS Customer

Motor Coater is available in aerosol cans, and in paint cans for rolling, brushing or application with spray equipment. Keep in mind brush-on engine enamels take longer to apply and more care is required, but in general they offer better coverage. 

“I recently finished a complete engine bay restoration on my 1968 Oldsmobile 442 convertible. I decided to use Motor Coater because I really did not want to completely remove the engine and thought having the ability to brush the block would alleviate the overspray issue. The results exceeded my expectation” Steve C. – KBS Customer

KBS Coatings Motor Coater in Ford Corporate Blue

Motor Coater provides 39 color options, allowing you to be as creative as you want to be. These options include OEM correct engine colors:

• AMC Metallic Blue – 69’-72’
• AMC Blue – 73’-81’
• Austin Healey Moss Green Metallic
• Buick Turquoise: All 42'-52' & some 53' Spec
• Buick Green Late: 53'-65'
• Buick Red Late: 66'-71'
• Cadillac Dark Blue: 49'-76'
• Chevy Blue: 54'-62' 6 Cylinder & 53' Auto
• Chevy Orange: 55', 57'-75' V-8’s
• Chrysler Blue: 73'-83'
• Chrysler Turquoise: All 383-440 Big Block / 62'-71'
• Street Hemi Orange: 66'-71' 426 Street Hemis, 70'-71' 383 & 440 Hi-Performance, 70'-71' 340
• Race Hemi Orange: 62'-64' 413 & 426 Max Wedge, 64'-65' 426 Race Hemi’s
• Ford Corporate Blue: 67'- on with 302 Engine
• Ford Dark Blue: 41'-48'
• Ford Green
• T-Bird Red: OEM engine color, not body color
• MG Green: 45'-48' TC Engine & Firewall
• Old Cummins Gold
• Olds Gold: 64'-67' 330 CI & 68'-76' 350 CI
• Olds Bronze: 65'-69' 400 CI
• Pontiac Metallic Blue: 66'-72'
• Pontiac Light Blue: Also a perfect match for 78'-81' GM Corporate Blue
• Pontiac Light Blue: 59'-65'

“I love this paint! Has great coverage and easy to apply! Engine looks better than it came from the factory! It's great the correct colors are offered for AMC! This is the only type of paint I will ever use on engines! Highly recommended!” -  Logan S. – KBS Customer

“Perfect match, covers excellently and nice price!” – Alan L.

KBS Coatings Motor Coater in AMC Blue

Motor Coater can be purchased separately or as part of the Motor Coater Kit that includes KBS Klean to clean and degrease the engine, RustBlast to remove rust and corrosion and etch the surface for best adhesion of the Motor Coater. KBS #1 Thinner is included to thin Motor Coater for spray equipment application.

Want to see how the Motor Coater Kit is applied? Check out this episode of Sam’s Garage.

Always remember; heat resistance, gloss retention, and resistance to chipping and flaking are the main criteria when choosing an engine paint that will provide the best appearance and long-lasting durability.

For more information on Motor Coater click here.

KBS Bed Renu Used To Restore Bumper With Textured, Durable Finish

KBS Bed Renu is not only designed to be used as a tough, durable Bed Liner, but KBS Bed Renu is also used to restore bumpers. KBS Bed Renu gives you an incredible looking, durable, UV stable, textured finish that performs extremely well on bumpers that take abuse including off-road vehicles.

KBS Bed Renu is a tough and flexible thick black protective coating designed to coat areas where your bed-liner has worn away or needs “Renu’d”.

KBS Bed Renu is an easy-to-apply bumper paint that provides a textured, UV stable, incredible durable finish for all vehicles including off-road vehicles.

KBS Bed Renu is ideal for fender flares and running boards providing the needed UV stability along with a textured and durable finish that is easy to clean.

KBS Bed Renu protects against corrosion and abrasion while withstanding impacts and providing traction.

KBS Bed Renu features a fast cure and excellent adhesion which extends the life of your vehicle.

KBS Bed Renu is waterproof, deadens sounds and vibrations, and absorbs impacts.

KBS Bed Renu resists staining from harsh chemicals and does not crack, bubble, or peel.

How To Attach The Cavity Wand to KBS Cavity Coater Aerosol

In this video from KBS Coatings, we show you how to properly attach the easy-to-use Cavity Wand to the Cavity Coater Aerosol Can.

The keys to your success are to shake the Cavity Coater Aerosol well before use, gently push straight down the spray tip while giving a slight twist, and applying when it is between 65-80F for ideal results. Cavity Coater Aerosol sprays the best when the Cavity Coater Aerosol is between 65-80F.

Cavity Coater is the Perfect Solution for hard-to-reach areas that are prone to rusting! Cavity Coater is a single step, super-penetrating corrosion inhibiting coating (CIC) designed for long term protection on all metal surfaces. KBS Cavity Coater provides a self-healing film which provides insane rust protection on hard to reach areas.

Rust Prevention Products Used To Stop and Prevent Rust on Car Surfaces

In the video, Stacey David shows how easy it is to prep and coat surfaces of your car or vehicle to stop rust and prevent rust from destroying the metal surfaces. The rust prevention system from KBS Coatings, that features KBS Klean, RustBlast, and RustSeal, is used to stop rust and prevent rust on all of these surfaces and more: suspension mounts, strut towers, control arms, Shocks and struts, sway bars, backend exhaust, exhaust pipes, catalytic converters, mufflers, rocker panels, floor boards, trunk floors, front fenders, rear fenders, doors, battery compartment, engine compartments, and engine bays.

RustSeal is a superior one part, completely non-porous, ready-to-use, high-solid content, rust preventive coating, that is actually strengthened by exposure to moisture. It is impervious to road salts and most every chemical.

RustSeal flows out to a beautiful, rock-hard, tough coating that is tough to chip or scratch. These exceptional properties make RustSeal specifically formulated to prevent corrosion and stop rust.

RustSeal completely seals metal surfaces, blocking all the pores and preventing penetration of moisture, oxygen, and water vapor.

Unlike other corrosion treatments, RustSeal is an enhancement and investment that lasts. Water and air are locked out, therefore oxidation, the precursor to rust, cannot take hold on the metal surfaces of your vehicle.

Rust Converter versus Removing Rust and Sealing Metal – Which Protects Metal Longest?

Most everyone knows that once metal starts to rust it will continue to rust until the metal is completely eaten away. So, it’s important to stop rust as soon as it’s discovered. Here we will discuss two methods used to stop rust. The first is using rust converter to convert the rust to an inert primed layer that can stand alone or be painted over. The second is to completely remove the rust from the metal, and then apply a rust preventive paint or coating to protect the metal. Both techniques will stop rust and seal the metal from moisture and oxygen to keep it from rusting in the future. However, results will vary when it comes to how long the metal can be kept free from future rust and what the quality and appearance of the finish will be.

Method – Using Rust Converter

Rust converter will stop rust, however the finish quality is rough

Rust converter, also known as rust reformer, is a chemical solution or primer that can be directly applied to the metal surface to convert iron oxide (rust) to a protective chemical barrier that is resistant to moisture and protects the surface from further corrosion. Rust converter is comprised of phosphoric acid or tannic acid or a blend of both. Phosphoric acid rust converter turns the iron oxide into a ferric phosphate inert layer. It can be used on metal parts that are exposed to exterior weather conditions if it is top coated with a quality paint or coating. Tannic acid produces a protective bluish-black ferric tannate inert primer layer, which can stand alone to protect against exterior weather conditions or be painted over for better appearance. The layer acts as an excellent primer for both oil and epoxy-based paints. Rust converter can be used on any rusty iron or steel object; however, it will not work on aluminum, copper, stainless steel, or galvanized metal.

Benefits of Using Rust Converter

With the rust stop techniques being discussed here it is necessary to first remove any loose or flaking rust with a stiff bristle brush, wire wheel, or sandpaper before using rust converter. This is done to provide a stable surface. It’s important to not remove all rust since it would defeat the purpose of rust converter which chemically bonds to rust and seals it in. Application of rust converter is a simple and quick procedure compared to eliminating rust and sealing the metal with a rust preventive coating. This is especially advantageous when time to complete the project is limited or the object is large and thorough rust removal would be highly labor-intensive.

Drawbacks of Using Rust Converter

When done properly, eliminating rust, and sealing the metal with a rust preventive paint or coating can provide a longer lasting solution than rust converter. While time and labor are reduced on the front end with rust converter, the procedure will have to be repeated before too long. In some cases, a good rust elimination and metal seal job can provide protection from future rust four to five times longer than using rust converter.

Another consideration is that finish quality can be compromised when using rust converter. Eliminating rust typically provides a smoother surface for rust preventative paints and coatings, which allows for a smoother and better appearing final finish. Also, rust converter is designed to bond to rust. So, it won’t work on non-rusty surfaces or surfaces where there are a mix of rusty and non-rusty areas.

KBS Rust Converter

KBS coatings offers Rust Converter that easily converts a rusty surface in to a black, inert primed surface that is ready for paint and is compatible with most topcoats. It is offered in aerosol form for easy application and is fast drying. More information is available here.

Method - Remove rust and seal the metal with a paint or coating

Rust removed, and metal sealed with a coating

For stopping rust, the best and longest lasting result is achieved by eliminating rust and then using a primer to seal the metal from moisture and oxygen and then applying a top coating with paint or other coating. It’s important that the rust is thoroughly removed and a strong bonding and durable paint or coating is applied.

Rust Removal

Rust can be removed with chemicals, solvents, and abrasives. As when using a rust converter, the initial step is to remove loose flaking rust with a stiff bristled brush or sandpaper. The following are examples of rust removal methods.

Chemicals and Solvents

White Vinegar - White vinegar will dissolve rust when the metal is soaked in the for a few hours. This leaves a “rusty paste” which can be scrubbed off with a stiff brush. For objects too large to directly soak in white vinegar a layer of vinegar can be poured on and after allowing time to set the metal can be scrubbed off.

Oxalic Acid – Oxalic acid is a compound that is odorless and appears as a white crystalline solid. When mixed with water it produces a colorless and odorless solution. As it is an acid, care must be taken during handling, including gloves, a mask, and safety goggles. The metal object is then soaked in the solution. Results can be seen within 20 minutes, though in cases of heavy rust, it can be soaked for up to 24 hours.

Petroleum-Based Solvents - Products like WD-40 can be used to remove rust and are not as corrosive or toxic as acids. Expect to wait up to 24 hours for petroleum-based solvents to take full effect.

Water Based Rust Removers - Acid-free, water-based rust removers lift the rust from the metal through a process called chelation. Chelation causes molecules within the rust removal solution to bond with rust and draw it away from the underlying metal and into a substrate. The rusty object is typically immersed in the solution, or the rust remover is sprayed on. The rusted object is then left for 30 minutes to remove light rust, or up to overnight for extremely heavy rust.

Abrasives

Using abrasives is a mechanical form of rust removal which easily removes rust. Examples are sanding by hand or use of power tools like an angle grinder, sander, or a drill fitted with a surface finishing disc, cup brushes, or wire wheels. Sandblasting is also a popular and easy way to remove rust and it provides the metal with a surface texture that allows paint to firmly bond.

Painting/Coating

After rust has been removed the metal needs to be sealed to prevent it from rusting in the future. A primer is applied and then is usually top coated with a paint or coating. Of note, some paints include a primer in their formulation.

Primer

While metal paint primer is not always a requirement, it is always recommended, especially if the metal will be in contact with moisture. Depending on the type of paint or coating used as a top coat, the metal may or may not require primer to seal it before the top coat is applied. There are a variety of primers available and most popular are self-etching primer and epoxy primer.

Self-Etching Primer - provides a strong bond to the surface and prepares and seals metal from air and moisture. Self-etching primer uses an acid to micro-etch the metal for a slightly rough “anchor pattern” surface profile (like that achieved by sandblasting) that provides increased grip for the primer which in turn provides a strong base for the top coat for best overall adhesion. Some self-etching primers deposit a layer of zinc phosphate for increased adhesion. Self-etching primer cures quickly, which helps reduce project times.

Epoxy primer provides excellent adhesion when priming metal but because it doesn’t etch the metal like self-etching primer. The proper surface profile must be created manually by sanding the surface with 80 to 180-grit sandpaper, or by sandblasting. Of note, epoxy primers take longer to cure than self-etching primer.

Paint or Coating

When top coating the primer it is important that the top coat is compatible with the primer. No type of paint will bond to unprepared epoxy paint. Because epoxy painted surfaces don’t allow adhesion, they must be abraded before they will accept new paint. Sanding the old epoxy finish with a 120 to 220 grit sandpaper will promote adhesion. Once the epoxy has been abraded, any type of paint will bond to it.

Benefits of removing rust and seal the metal with a paint or coating

As long as the job is done effectively, the best and longest lasting result for stopping rust is achieved by eliminating the rust and then sealing the metal from moisture and oxygen. Also, the finish quality is better than using rust converter.

Drawbacks of removing rust and seal the metal with a paint or coating

One drawback of removing rust and sealing the metal with a paint or coating are that it the procedure is labor intensive compared to using a rust converter. Also, the cost of materials will usually be higher. However, in this case you certainly get what you pay for.

KBS Coatings 3-Step System

KBS Coatings offers the user-friendly 3-Step System to stop rust. It performs all the functions necessary to properly remove rust and seal the metal for the best long-term protection against rust.

After removing any loose or flaking with a stiff bristled brush, or sandpaper KBS Klean, a biodegradable cleaner that removes dirt, oil, grease, and other contaminants is applied and scrubbed with a scrub brush or scouring pad.

Next RustBlast, a water based and biodegradable solution is applied to dissolve and neutralize rust. As well, it acts as a pre-paint primer, and provides the metal with an etched surface profile for solid paint adhesion. After spraying on it is left to sit (while keeping wet) for about 30 minutes and then is rinsed off with water.

Finally, RustSeal, a single part coating that seals metal away from moisture and oxygen is brushed, sprayed, or rolled on to form an attractive, tough, ceramic-like coating that is hard to chip or scratch, and won’t crack or peel.

More information on the KBS 3-Step System can found here.

So, what’s best for stopping rust?

Ultimately, it will come down to your goal for protection longevity and visual appeal. KBS Rust Converter will do a good job of stopping rust and is a relatively quick process compared to eliminating rust and sealing the metal with a paint or coating. However, it won’t protect metal as long and the finish quality won’t be as smooth and attractive.

Marine Paint Needs to Have Toughness, Flexibility, and Durability

Marine environments can wreak havoc on metal and the paints they are finished with. Things like boat trailers, decks, hulls, masts, and storage lockers are susceptible to the moist and often salty conditions. Wear and tear can damage paint, exposing metal, and soon rust sets in. Without stopping rust, it causes damage that can be costly to repair or require replacement of the rusted part.

To avoid damage the metal needs to be refinished immediately with marine paint. However, rust usually sets in before the job can be completed. So, what is the best way to refinish metal that is rusted? What needs to be considered when choosing a rustproof paint for marine use?

Marine paint needs to separate air and moisture from the metal to avoid oxidation, the precursor to rust. To keep air and moisture away from metal the paint must bond strongly and be hard to avoid damage from wear and tear.

Flexibility is another important quality marine paint needs to address. Flexibility allows the paint to remain bonded to the metal if it is dented, as well as when the metal expands and contracts. Durability is critical also to reduce the frequency of the metal needing to be refinished. UV stability is a primary concern as the paint will most likely have high exposure to the sun.

To maintain an impenetrable barrier that will seal the metal away from air and moisture, marine paint ultimately must have toughness, flexibility and durability to remain uncompromised by dings and dents to the metal, as well as the elements.

KBS Coatings RustSeal performs well as a marine paint as it has the necessary toughness, flexibility and durability needed to maintain an air and moisture proof seal with the metal. RustSeal is a single part, moisture cured rust preventive coating. The formulation of the paint makes it non-porous and impervious to air, water, sea salt and chemicals. RustSeal is for use above or below the waterline and will protect metal that is underwater or exposed to constant high humidity.

KBS Coatings Advanced Cross-Linked Coatings Technology makes RustSeal both highly-durable and flexible. Its hardness helps to avoid damage from wear and tear, while its flexibility allows it to remain bonded to metal during expansion and contraction, or if it is dented. RustSeal won’t crack, flake or peel in marine environments. Check out this video demonstrating RustSeal's durability and flexibility.

RustSeal is user-friendly and can be brushed on, rolled on, or sprayed on. It flows out well and is self-leveling to provide a beautiful, smooth finish without brush marks. The paint is available in at least 10 colors.

To achieve the best bond of RustSeal to metal, the surface needs to be properly prepared. Corrosion and organic contaminants need to be removed so that RustSeal can deeply penetrate and permanently adhere. This includes removing dirt, oil, grease and other contaminants. The surface also needs to have a texture, or etch, that allows the RustSeal to take hold. This preparation can be achieved by sand blasting. However, blasting with plastic, bead or soda media will not provide the amount of abrasion needed for direct RustSeal application. If the metal is not being sandblasted, KBS offers KBS Klean and RustBlast for proper surface preparation.

KBS Klean is a concentrated, water-based, biodegradable, and non-flammable formula that cleans the surface by removing dirt, grime, oils, lubricants, grease, waxes, scum, algae, and other contaminants. KBS Klean is applied after using 320 grit sandpaper, or a wire brush or wheel to remove any loose flakey rust. After the KBS Klean procedure is complete, it is time for RustBlast.

RustBlast is a powerful rust remover, zinc phosphate pre-primer, and metal etch. RustBlast dissolves rust, corrosion, metal oxides, and tarnish from most metal surfaces. Prior use of KBS Klean is important as the cleaner the surface is, the more effective RustBlast will be. RustBlast ultimately allows RustSeal to penetrate more deeply into pores in the metal to permanently seal and protect the surface.

RustSeal is not intended for use as a final marine paint finish as long-term exposure to direct UV light will cause fading of the color and sheen. RustSeal’s guaranteed rust protective properties, however, will not degrade. To protect against unwanted cosmetic changes, RustSeal can be top coated with any opaque (solid color) paint system. A popular choice is KBS Coatings Top Coater, which is included in the KBS All-In-One Kit. This user-friendly all-inclusive kit consists of KBS Klean, RustBlast, RustSeal, Top Coater and KBS #1 Thinner.

KBS Top Coater is a single part, high solids paint that does not run or sag, and gives at least twice the coverage of conventional single part marine paint. Like RustSeal, KBS Top Coater can be brushed, rolled or sprayed on. Its self-leveling properties allow it flow out well, not show brush marks and provide professional looking results. KBS Top Coater is available in at least 16 colors.

Marine environments can wreak havoc on metal and the marine paint it is finished with. KBS Coatings provides a solution to avoid rust with a tough, long lasting and durable barrier, while providing a beautiful and professional appearing finish.

For more information on the KBS Coatings All-In-One Kit click HERE.

Headlight Clear Coat Damage Reduces Light Output

Cars and trucks with dull, cloudy, yellowed headlights. You see them all the time. Vehicles on the road, in parking lots and maybe in your own driveway. Because of damaged headlight clear coat, the headlights don’t put out as much light as they used to. They look bad. They make the vehicle look aged. There’s nothing good about them except for their creation of replacement headlamp sales, and the only folks who like that are those who sell replacement headlamps!

The headlamps in question are made from polycarbonate plastic (PC). During the 1980s, most car and truck manufacturers stopped producing headlights with glass and began using polycarbonate plastic because of its lightweight and that it can easily be formed into a variety of complex shapes for many different vehicle designs. Polycarbonate has the benefit of not breaking as easily as glass. But the downside is the dullness, cloudiness and yellowing that occurs as the headlamp ages.

Consequences of dull, cloudy, yellowed headlights

Appearance of headlamps is a cosmetic thing; the more important issue is safety. Drivers cannot afford any reduction in visibility. Consider that 50 percent of vehicle collisions occur at night and as determined by the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA), 26 percent of these collisions were caused by poor lighting.

Research done by the American Automobile Association (AAA) shows that dull, cloudy and yellowed headlights, on low beam, have reduction in light output of nearly 80 percent as compared to when they were new. In other words, deteriorated headlights may produce only 22 percent of the light of new ones! Making the road, other cars, pedestrians, deer, etc. 80 percent less visible at night. Now that’s scary.

Of note, AAA made these determinations by conducting research using an accredited laboratory to test headlights from two popular sedans that had been in service for about 11 years. Light output from the deteriorated headlights were compared against the light output of corresponding new headlights to quantify the amount of light reduction. All testing was done in accordance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 108.

There are other consequences of dull, cloudy and yellowed headlights. While not as dire as the safety issue, there is a chance the diminished headlamps will earn you a fix-it ticket and fine issued by the police. Also, resale value of the vehicle can be negatively affected because of poor appearance. Plus, the owner might be a bit bummed the guy next to him has clearer headlights at the Saturday morning Cars and Coffee.

Causes

So, what causes polycarbonate plastic headlamps to deteriorate? There are several factors.

Polycarbonate headlamps are produced with a protective headlight clear coat to prevent scratching of the lenses and sunlight damage. However, exposure to sunlight breaks down the coating, which causes yellowing and clouding. Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can also cause the lens to develop micro-cracks which speeds up the color change. The resulting discoloration significantly diminishes light output.

Another cause is gravel, road salt, and other debris that strike the headlamps as the car or truck is being driven. This wears down the headlight clear coat and creates pits and scratches which adds to their cloudy appearance.

When chemical pollutants in the air react with water vapor and oxidants, they form acid sulfuric and nitric acids. These acids fallout when it is raining or snowing. Known as acid rain, these acids etch the lenses and create cloudiness.

Polycarbonate lenses are porous and when heated by the bulb inside, and by the sun, they absorb minute particles of dust and debris through these tiny pores, which adds to the cloudiness. When light passes through the lenses, it is refracted from the particles and creates glare for oncoming drivers.

All of this contributes to dull, cloudy and yellowed lenses. In some cases, headlights can require maintenance within three to five years of use.

Can it be avoided?

There are ways damage to polycarbonate plastic headlamps can be mitigated. Avoiding UV exposure is at the top of the list. Park your car in a garage or at least in the shade. Face the car away from the sun when parking outdoors to reduce UV exposure.

Keeping your headlights clean from dirt and chemicals is important. Wash them at least every three months with car wash and a sponge. Early signs of yellowing can be removed by carefully polishing the headlights with a non-abrasive polishing medium and a microfiber cloth.

Can polycarbonate plastic headlights be restored?

Thankfully, if the polycarbonate headlamps aren’t too badly damaged there are options for economically restoring them, rather than installing new units. Consider a headlamp typically ranges $130.00 to $430.00 depending on whether it’s an OEM or aftermarket part.

Restoration of the headlamps starts by removing the oxidized outer layer where pits, cloudiness, and yellowing reside. This is typically done with a fine abrasive, like fine sandpaper or abrasive pad, until the damage is removed. In extreme cases a heavier abrasive is needed, which requires polishing with a compound to smooth the surface.

Once a headlamp is restored the lens surface needs to be sealed with a high-performance headlight clear coat. Otherwise, the surface will cloud over in short order. This is the new protective coating that’s replacing the failed factory coating. So, the headlight clear coat needs to be UV stable to handle sunlight while not yellowing. Or else it’s right back to yellowed headlights. The headlight clear coat also needs to be durable and flexible to handle impact from gravel and debris without chipping, cracking or peeling.

Headlight restoration is far more cost effective than headlight replacement. Professional headlamp restoration services are available. Do-it-yourself kits are available as well.

Which brings us to the KBS Coatings Headlight Restore Kit

The KBS Coatings Headlight Restore Kit has everything needed to restore 4 or more polycarbonate plastic headlight lenses. The Headlight Restore Kit represents quite a savings compared to the typical $130.00 to $430.00 cost of replacement headlights.

Included in the Headlight Restore Kit is KBS Klean, which is used along with the included scrub pad to clean the surface and remove oxidation, cloudiness and yellowing. KBS Klean is a powerful, concentrated, water-based cleaner that deeply penetrates and cleans surfaces without leaving harmful residues or emitting noxious fumes. This procedure properly prepares the surface for application of KBS Coatings DiamondFinish Clear.

DiamondFinish Clear is a moisture cured, crystal clear, one part urethane clear coat that is that is UV stable, durable and extremely tough. It can perform in the toughest environments without yellowing, cracking or peeling. Because of its Advanced Cross-Linked Coatings Technology, it performs extremely well as a headlight clear coat. This technology makes the coating both flexible and durable, so it is tough against chips and cracks and doesn’t have issues with delamination or flaking away from the surface. For a demonstration of DiamondFinish Clear’s flexibility and durability see our video.

DiamondFinish Clear is a single component (1K) coating, which means user-friendliness with no self-mixing of two parts and is applied with the included sponge brushes. Since the coating is self-leveling it leaves a beautifully smooth surface without brush marks. Note: Most headlight clear coats have issues with this.

Check out this demonstration of the Headlight Restore Kit.

Dull, cloudy, yellowed headlights affect both the safety and appearance of vehicles. It’s important to maintain polycarbonate plastic headlights to keep light output as close to original as possible and to keep the headlights looking clear and bright.

For more information on the KBS Coatings Headlight Restore Kit CLICK HERE.

Cavity Wax Provides Rust Protection in Hard-to-Reach Areas

Cavity wax is an excellent solution for providing rust protection in hard-to-reach areas. Rust develops when steel or iron is exposed to exposed to moisture and oxygen. To avoid rust it is necessary to seal the metal from these elements. While many areas of a car or truck can be easily reached to apply a rustproof paint or coating, other places are often difficult to reach, leaving the metal bare and exposed. Examples of these areas are inside frame rails, rocker panels, fenders, doors, tailgates, windshield cowls, and posts. Cavity wax can be used to provide a barrier against salt, dirt, and moisture in these areas as well as seal the welds and seams that rustproof paint or coating can’t reach.

Cavity wax, also called rustproof wax, is a solvent-based water repellant wax that doesn’t completely harden but remains soft and pliable and therefore doesn’t crack, chip or peel. As well, it is self-healing if scratched. Because of its nature, cavity wax wicks into welds and seams. Cavity wax is often used when restoring vehicles and is important to use in body areas that have been repaired after an accident.

Cavity wax is applied by spraying and is available in aerosol can versions as well as in paint cans for use in compressor driven wax spraying equipment like an auto body Schutz applicator type gun. The surface is coated with about a millimeter of cavity wax for proper coverage. In some cases where the wax cannot reach the area to be protected by the nozzle of the spray gun or aerosol can a piece of flexible hose, commonly called a spray wand, can be attached and to reach the cavities. The hose can be fed or snaked around corners and into areas that were previously out of reach.

Spray wand inserted into cavity

A cone-shaped nozzle disburses a stream of cavity wax perpendicular to the hose to help fully coat the cavity. Spraying while pulling the wand from the cavity at a rate of about two inches per second works best. Also, as the extension cavity wax wand is pulled from a cavity, individuals using the spray-gun should release the spray-gun trigger to avoid overspray.

Close Up of spray wand tip

Before the wax is applied the surface should be as free as possible of grease, wax, and readily accessible loose scaly rust. When applying inside cavities, make sure that all drain holes remain open.

Cavity wax should not be applied to exhaust systems as it will produce smoke and can be flammable. It’s important to know that any grinding, cutting, or heating with a torch can cause the cavity wax to run. Any work which raises a part’s temperature above 160°F should be done before cavity wax is applied.

KBS Coatings offers Cavity Coater as a solution for providing rust protection in hard-to-reach areas. Cavity Coater is a single step, super-penetrating corrosion inhibiting coating (CIC) designed for long term protection of all metal surfaces. It provides a self-healing cavity wax film tested to render more than four thousand hours of salt spray protection; over 4 times the protection of conventional cavity waxes. Cavity Coater resists road salt, alkaline solutions, and chemicals and for especially hard to-reach-areas the Cavity Wand is offered to extend the reach of aerosol Cavity Coater with a reusable 48” hose that features a 360-degree spray tip. The Cavity Wand requires only a 1/8” hole to insert and is easily cleaned. Cavity Coater is available in quart, gallon, and aerosol versions.

Cavity wax is an excellent solution for providing rust protection in hard-to-reach areas and is perfect for brand new and older vehicles. KBS Coatings Cavity Coater product information is available HERE. Videos demonstrating use of Cavity Coater and the Cavity Wand can be seen HERE.

Roll on Bed Liner is Among the Best Ways to Protect Your Truck Bed

Carrying cargo is rough on the bed of your pickup truck. Dings and dents can make the pick-up bed appear aged and worn. On top of that, scratches and abrasion can expose metal and cause rust to form. Not only can this shorten the lifespan of the truck bed, but it also looks bad and can lower the truck’s resale value. There are a few ways to protect truck beds from damage caused by carrying cargo including installation of truck bed mats and rugs and drop in bed liners. A spray on or roll on bed liner can also be put in place. There are benefits and drawbacks to each. Read on to see which option is best for you.

(Truck bed damaged by cargo)

Truck Bed Mats and Rugs

Bed mats and bed rugs are basically the same concept and are laid on the truck bed floor, with some manufacturers including pieces to protect the sides of the bed. Mats are typically made of rubber or a semi-flexible polyethylene, while rugs are often thicker and made from carpet, or polypropylene that’s covered with polyester fiber for a carpet-like effect.

In comparison, mats and rugs are usually a more economical option than drop-in bed liners while they typically cost more than a do-it-yourself spray on or roll on bed liner. Both mats and rugs are available in custom sizes that are patterned to precisely fit specific truck models, as well as available in universal sizes that can be cut to fit by the installer.

Among the benefits of bed mats and rugs is that they are easily installed with no preparation, other than cleaning the bed of dirt and debris. Also, they can be easily removed as needed for cleaning, storage, or replacement. Thickly padded bed rugs also have the advantage of being easy on the knees if you need to crawl around in the bed.

Negatives aspects of truck bed mats and rugs include cargo may slip as the mat or rug moves around. Also, they are not be as durable as a drop-in liner, or a quality spray-on or roll on bed liner when carrying heavy loads. Other considerations are that moisture can be become trapped underneath causing rust or corrosion to form - especially in locales that use road salt. Further, products that don’t protect bed sides leave them vulnerable to damage.

(Truck bed mat)

Drop In Bed Liners

Drop in bed liners are made from a durable rubber or plastic and typically offer a higher level of protection against dents, dings, scratches, and damage than a bed mat or rug. The liners are one piece, drop into place, protect all sides of the bed, and are held in place with an adhesive or screws. Like mats and rugs, drop in liners are available in custom sizes as well as universal sizes. Pricing is affordable and is comparable to higher quality bed mats and bed rugs.

Beyond cleaning the bed of dirt and debris no special preparation is needed to install a drop in liner, and while it is more of a permanent solution, it can be removed and reinstalled if needed. Drop in liners usually offer a higher level of durability than a mat or rug, and models with a grippy surface can do a good job of keeping cargo from sliding around.

Drawbacks include that water can seep through underneath the liner leading to rust and corrosion. Also, installation can be invasive if the liner is held in place with fasteners that need to be inserted into the bed.

(Drop in bed liner)

Spray On and Roll On Bed Liners

A spray on or roll on bedliner is a permanent solution for protecting a truck bed. Spray on liners can be installed by professionals while do-it-yourself spray on and roll on bed liner kits offer a more economical option. Installation doesn’t take a lot of skill and even a novice can achieve a high quality, professional looking outcome. Most do-it-yourself kits can be sprayed on, or rolled on, as the installer sees fit.

A spray on or roll on bedliner adheres to the bed surface and is typically composed of a polyurethane elastomer. As such, water doesn’t get trapped, which helps to prevent corrosion. Ensuring there is no rust or corrosion before applying is important so that the rust doesn’t continue to grow and damage the metal under the liner. Since this liner type can be applied to all interior surfaces of the bed and tailgate it provides complete protection.

Additional benefits of a spray on or roll on bed liner are that it can’t crack or break as might happen with a drop in liner. Also, formulations with a rough, grippy surface helps keep cargo from sliding a round. A spray on and roll on bed liner can also dampen sound.

(KBS Bed Liner can be sprayed on, brushed on or rolled on)

KBS Bed Liner

KBS Coatings offers KBS Bed Liner, which can be sprayed on, rolled on, or brushed on. KBS Bed Liner forms a highly durable yet flexible thick black protective coating that withstands impacts and protects against corrosion and abrasion. KBS Bed Liner is long lasting, scratch and chip resistant, and has excellent UV stability. KBS Bed Liner adheres strongly to the bed and its high traction qualities help keep cargo from sliding around.

For best adhesion, the bed needs to be properly prepared by scuffing the surfaces of the truck bed using medium grit sandpaper or a scouring pad. Using KBS Klean to clean the surface afterward is recommended. The surface must be clean, dry, non-glossy, and free of rust or flaking paint for the best performance.

Of note, if the bed of the truck as surface rust it can be removed and neutralized using the KBS 3 Step Rust Prevention System. This system can be of benefit for installing any type of truck bed liner.

As mentioned, KBS Bed Liner can be used as a spray on, brush on, or roll on bed liner. When spraying use a Schutz style spray gun or HVLP spray gun. When rolling using a 3-inch rough foam high quality and solvent resistant roller. For maximum durability, apply 2-3 coats. Always apply a thin coat of material on the first pass and then a slightly heavier coat. Allow 72 hours for full cure before placing objects on the surface. Detailed instructions can be found here.

Street Trucks Magazine used KBS Bed Liner on their classic Chevrolet square body custom build. You can see the article here.

Carrying cargo is rough on the bed of your pickup truck. You can extend the life of your truck bed and help retain the truck’s resale value by installing a spray on or roll on bed liner. For more information about the KBS do-it-yourself spray on, brush on, and roll on bed liner kits please contact us. We are here to help.

Car Frame Repair is Kept Free of Future Corrosion Using the KBS Ultimate Frame Coater Kit

During an automotive restoration car frame repair is often necessary. During the life of the car, or truck, the frame may have been damaged by rust or a collision. Since a damaged frame affects safety, it is important to be sure the frame is repaired properly. The first step of a car frame repair is a thorough inspection of the frame to determine if it has any damage.

In cases of collision a frame may be visibly bent, however, there are times when the damage may not be visible. This might be noticed if the vehicle is pulling to one side as it is being driven. If an alignment is performed and the car is still pulling, there is a good chance the frame is bent. Uneven tire wear is also an indicator of a bent frame. Again, if after an alignment is performed and the condition persists, the frame may be bent. Another sign of a bent frame are shocks and suspension that are worn unevenly. These components will wear faster on the side of the vehicle where more weight is being distributed by the bent frame. Uneven gaps in the body can also be a telltale sign of a tweaked frame and need for car frame repair.

To straighten the frame, autobody shops use powerful hydraulic machines to push and pull the frame back into shape. That is, if the car or truck hasn’t been too badly damaged. In this case, car frame repair may be possible by cutting out the bent portions of the frame and weld in replacement pieces.

Another consideration are cracks in the frame that have formed due to collision, or stress from long-time use. Cracks can be visible to the naked eye, however, some are hard to see or are hidden just below the surface of the metal. Also, visible cracks may have ends that are so narrow that it is difficult to see how far they extend. There are methods to find these small cracks in the metal. The first is visible dye penetrant testing where dye is applied to the metal surface. After a period, the dye is wiped off the surface, which leaves dye that has settled into the crack. Therefore, making the crack visible as a bright red line. The only drawback is that the test will only show cracks that have reached the surface. It won’t show internal cracking of the metal.

Dye penetrant testing indicates cracked metal

A different and more accurate way to test metal for cracks is magnetic particle inspection, which is commonly known as Magnaflux. This process detects cracks that are on the surface as well as defects in the subsurface of the metal. The way it works is magnetic particles, suspended in oil, are applied to the surface of the metal. The metal then receives a magnetic charge causing the magnetic particles in the oil to concentrate where cracks or defects in the metal are and indicate where they are located. Of note, Magnaflux is significantly more expensive than visible dye penetrant testing for car frame repair.

Magnetic Particle Inspection reveals crack

Cracks in frames must be expertly repaired. Common car frame repair methods for flat surfaces include reinforcing the crack with a square shaped plate with the square edges of the plate placed 45° to the crack, which spreads the stress forces out. Another method is to “stop drill”, or drill holes at ends of the crack to keep the crack from migrating, and then installing a sleeve over the cracked area and welding it in place.

Rust is common cause for significant frame damage. Especially with cars driven in the midwest and northeast US, where road salt eats away at metal. Rust damage is usually easily spotted with a visual inspection of the frame. However, frames can rust from the inside out, with little evidence of rust on the exterior of the frame. So, it’s important to inspect inside frame rails to be sure this isn’t happening. Also, the welds throughout the frame, including joints of mounting tabs welded onto the frame, need to be carefully inspected for rust damage that may have compromised the integrity of the metal.

The rust needs to be removed physically, or chemically, and perforated or significantly damaged metal needs to be replaced. Welded-in steel plate patches may work in some cases while in more extreme situations new frame sections can be purchased or obtained from donor cars.

Once a frame has been inspected, and any needed car frame repair made, it should receive a coating that will keep it protected from rusting in the future. KBS Coatings offers the Ultimate Frame Coater Kit to remove rust, prepare the metal for coating, and seal it away from future corrosion.

The first step in the process is to remove any loose, flaking rust with a wire brush or wheel, or sandpaper. KBS Klean is then used to clean the metal. This high-strength non-toxic cleaner removes dirt, grime, grease, and other contaminants from the surface of the metal. KBS Klean can also be used to clean the frame during frame inspection and car frame repair.

The next step is RustBlast, which removes rust and is applied with a scrub brush and allowed to soak for at least 30 minutes. RustBlast contains zinc phosphate pre-primer and etches metal to prepare it for coating with RustSeal.

RustSeal is then applied with a brush, roller, or spray-gun. RustSeal is a single part coating that is hard and durable, yet flexible to handle impacts and dings. It effectively seals the metal away from air moisture and therefore keeps it from rusting. RustSeal provides a beautiful finish, and if flows out well. Which means it smooths out when applied and doesn’t show brush marks. RustSeal looks great and compliments any show car or restoration.

A final, yet crucial step is to protect the inside of frame rails from rust. To do so, the kit includes Cavity Coater, which is a cavity wax and corrosion inhibiting coating. Cavity Coater penetrates deeply to provide protection in hard-to-reach areas. Cavity Coater is applied with the Cavity Wand, which has a 360 degree spray tip for complete coverage.

For a demonstration of Cavity Coater being applied click here.

Proper frame inspection, car frame repair, and corrosion protection are an important part of an auto restoration. The KBS Ultimate Frame Coater Kit ensures the frame will stay in rust-free condition, and looking great, for years to come.

For more information on the Ultimate Frame Coater Kit click HERE.

Clear Concrete Sealer – How to Choose the Best Type for Your Project

A clear concrete sealer serves two primary functions. One is to protect the concrete and the other is to improve its appearance. Concrete surfaces, especially garage floors, are subject to staining and damage from oil, chemicals, dirt, road salt, and other materials. They can also be damaged by water erosion and extreme temperatures. A clear concrete sealer provides a protective barrier that stands between damaging elements and the concrete to help keep it from spalling, pitting and cracking. Although there is the initial investment of time and money to seal concrete, ultimately, it will help to avoid the expense of repair or replacement of the concrete by extending its service life. Concrete sealers can be used on new and old concrete, whether indoors or outdoors.

A clear concrete sealer also helps to beautify concrete by bringing out its colors and textures with a low sheen, high-gloss or wet look finish. Of note, spills, mud, and other contaminants are more easily cleaned from a sealed concrete surface.

Choosing the best type of clear concrete sealer depends on the requirements of your project.

Acrylic Concrete Sealer

Water based acrylic concrete sealer is the most widely used and is known for its color enhancement, short dry time and the ability to be applied to concrete soon after it is poured. Acrylic concrete sealers are also easy to use and generally more economical than other concrete sealers. A downside is that acrylic concrete sealer applies in thin coats is not durable. So, recoating is required more frequently than other types of clear concrete sealers. Acrylic concrete sealers are available in water based and solvent based formulations. Water based is often preferred as it is more durable than solvent based. Additionally, it helps reduce issues like brush marks and bubbling. A benefit of a solvent based acrylic clear concrete sealer is that it does a better job of enhancing the concrete color.

Penetrating Concrete Sealer

A clear concrete sealer that penetrates concrete is popular for outdoor use as it absorbs into the concrete for a barrier that doesn’t let water in but allows water vapor to evaporate out. This is ideal for winter environments as water trapped in concrete can freeze and expand, thereby cracking the concrete. Penetrating concrete sealer is popular for outdoor use, such as on sidewalks, as it doesn’t have a glossy finish that can get slippery when wet. Types of penetrating concrete sealers are silicate concrete sealer, silicone concrete sealer and silane concrete sealer. Silicate concrete sealer increases hardness and density of concrete. It maintains the natural appearance of the concrete but doesn’t provide high levels of protection against water erosion. Silicone concrete sealer provides shorter term protection and will need to be reapplied far more frequently than other sealers. This sealer doesn’t alter the appearance of concrete and is often used on vertical surfaces to protect concrete against graffiti. The coating doesn’t offer UV protection so it’s not ideal for applications that are exposed to significant sunlight. Silane Concrete Sealer is applied in two to three thick coats and provides protection for up to 3 years. This heavy-duty clear concrete sealer significantly changes the appearance of the concrete and is frequently used for parking garages.

Epoxy Concrete Sealer

Epoxy clear concrete sealer is much harder than acrylic concrete sealant and offers a thick and durable finish that is long lasting and abrasion resistant. Epoxy sealant has a high gloss and brings out surface colors. It’s a popular choice for kitchen counters and high traffic areas like walkways. As epoxy is vulnerable to yellowing caused by UV light it is most popular for indoor applications.

Polyurethane and Urethane Concrete Sealers

Polyurethane and urethane clear concrete sealer has a service life of 4-8 years, provides almost twice the thickness of an acrylic concrete sealer, and offers excellent durability against chemicals, contaminants, and scuffing. UV protectants keep the sealant from yellowing over time, making it a functional choice for outdoor applications as well as indoor use. Like acrylics, they are available in water based and solvent based formulations. This type of sealer performs so well it is the sealant of choice for high traffic areas such as concrete roadways. Flexibility of the coating allows it to handle impacts that would damage an acrylic clear concrete sealer.

KBS Coatings DiamondFinish Clear concrete sealer is an excellent choice for sealing concrete. DiamondFinish Clear is a 1K (one part – requires no mixing) moisture cured high gloss urethane clear coat that is exceptionally tough. Its formulation brings out the colors and textures of the concrete and because of its Advanced Cross-Linked Coatings Technology, it is both flexible and durable to avoid cracking and peeling. To see a demonstration of DiamondFinish Clear’s flexibility and durability see our video. DiamondFinish Clear is self-leveling and can be applied with a roller, spray gun, or with a brush without leaving any brush marks. The clear concrete sealer is UV stable making it an excellent performer for both indoor and outdoor uses. DiamondFinish Clear is user friendly with a quick dry time and a low and compliant VOC formulation.

Choosing the correct clear concrete sealer is a matter of determining what qualities it will need to have to best meet the requirements of the project. With careful research and selecting high quality products you can achieve a finish that looks great and provides long-lasting protection.

For more information on DiamondFinish Clear click HERE.

DiamondFinish Clear is not only an automotive 1K clear coat but is also used by artists worldwide to protect their outdoor sculptures and exterior artwork. DiamondFinish Clear is an easy to apply clear coat that is completely non-porous once cured and UV stable protecting permanently the surface that it encapsulates.

XTC is a high temperature/heat resistant coating formulated specifically to protect metal surfaces operating at temperatures from 500° F to 1500° F making XTC ideal for smokers and grills. With proper preparation, XTC provides outstanding adhesion, film integrity, weathering, and thermal shock-resistance throughout this entire temperature range and is guaranteed not to burn off! XTC is ideal for exterior applications because it resists rust when primed with XTC Primer. XTC Clear is typically used on smokers over the XTC base color to provide the gloss that many desire for their smoker.

KBS MAXX is a superior performance, two-component (2K), low VOC, low HAPs, permanently UV stable polyurethane topcoat that can be applied by brush, roller or sprayer to all your heavy equipment and heavy machinery.

KBS MAXX offers excellent gloss and color retention as well as superior impact resistance and provides fast drying characteristics. When durability and looks are key, KBS MAXX is the best rated and proven choice for all your exterior paint needs.