Tacking off

[Slowcoach]

FOMO. Fear Of Missing Out. I used to use PPG but they didn't mention tack though I hadn't read any of their Tec for years. Now moved to max meyer. No my point is, I've never flatted pre clear coat as it would knock back the metallic or mica and I would assume to a lesser extent, tacking would have a similar affect.

Ive never flatted before topcoat on base and clear, as you say it would absolutely wreck the finish.
The tack rag won’t affect the finish, have to make sure it’s not soft and be a bit careful. Try it on an old panel.
Have you only changed because of price or what the factor stocks.

 

[norsa]

I’m no painter but tack cloth on paint that isn’t fully dry doesn’t make sense to me

Yes, in bodyshop condition s (20'c) solvent basecoat flashes off really quickly.

 

[steveo3002]

ive tacked off plenty of jobs if theyre looking a bit ropey , yes you can leav marks on light colour jobs

remember they most likley sell solid colour base coat too , that not a issue so much

 

[norsa]

Agree Steve, I may consider tacking dust out of solid base but the TDS doesn't discriminate. Slowcoach, it's availability really and I've used it before but as it's going to now be my go to, I just thought I'd read the TDS out of interest. Mostly for flash off window pre clear. Then spotted the tack thing.

 

[norsa]

I've got a MK1 Escort to refinish in VW Viper green (pearl) I'll tack an interior panel and see A how much the rag takes off and B how it looks under the clear

 

[Slowcoach]

Can’t imagine they’d suddenly put it in for no reason, try speak to someone from max meyer or your paint rep.

 

[steveo3002]

if youve managed to paint without tacking off the base all this time then carry on ...its not like its some magic step that helps , other than it gives you a chance to remove any specs

 

[norsa]

I'm wondering if they omitted to include the words "if necessary"

 

[steveo3002]

I'm wondering if they omitted to include the words "if necessary"

exactly...dont worry about it

 

[MG David]

Given the job is only being left for 30 minutes or so I can't see there is going to be much to collect with the tack cloth. So I wouldn't risk it. If there is a little dust a quick blow should shift it. Only big bit of dust or fluff will show through a good clear coat.