Best Plasti Dip Spray Gun — Buyer’s Guide, How-To, Reviews, and Comparisons
Plasti Dip Spray Gun Comparison Table
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Best HVLP Spray Gun for Plasti Dip
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Best HVLP Spray Gun for Plasti Dip
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Features
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Check Price at Amazon Earlex 5500 Review Earlex 5500 Review | |
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Best for Accessories
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Best for Accessories
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Features
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Check Price at Amazon | |
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Best Airless Plasti Dip Spray Gun
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Best Airless Plasti Dip Spray Gun
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Features
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Check Price at Amazon Graco Ultra 17M363 Review Graco Ultra 17M363 Review | |
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Best Budget Plasti Dip Sprayer
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Best Budget Plasti Dip Sprayer
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Features
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Check Price at Amazon Wagner Control Max Review Wagner Control Max Review | |
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Best Plasti Dip Sprayer for Professional Use
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Best Plasti Dip Sprayer for Professional Use
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Features
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Check Price at Amazon Fuji 2203G Semi-PRO 2 Review Fuji 2203G Semi-PRO 2 Review | |
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Best Plasti Dip Spray Gun for Versatility
|
Best Plasti Dip Spray Gun for Versatility
|
Features
|
Check Price at Amazon Wagner Motocoat Review Wagner Motocoat Review |
Plasti Dip Spray Guns: A Buying Guide
- A decently sized coating container.
- Variable pressure regulation.
- Portability.
- Appropriatly sized fluid nozzles.
- Airless or HVLP technology.
What Is Plasti Dip and How Is It Used?
If it wasn’t for some intelligent DIYer rooting around in his workshop searching for a quick way to update his wheel rims to black, we wouldn’t have this incredible way of changing the color of our cars so rapidly.
But why is this paint so popular in body shops around the world?
Once Plasti Dip has dried, if you’re not happy with the end result, you can simply peel it off with no residual damage to the base material — allowing the ultimate in customization when it comes to your automobile.
However, this coasting goes further than aesthetic uses as it provides protection from corrosion, abrasion, acids, and moisture; all while remaining stretchy and flexible over time.
How To Choose the Best Paint Sprayer for Plasti Dip
Pressure Regulation and Variability
For example, if you are completing an intricate finish on the grill, you don’t want to have your machine set to the maximum setting as this would result in a great deal of mess and paint wastage.
Conversely, if you intend to complete a full body respray, then going at a snail’s pace on a low pressure setting is somewhat frustrating, and it will take an age to complete the task.
Paint Container
Alternatively, if you plan to complete regular body respraying, then a larger cup means you’ll have enough Plasti Dip on hand to avoid regular refills. But beware, unless you have bionic arms, try to avoid huge paint containers. Once full, these can add a great deal of weight to your Plasti Dip sprayer.
Portability
You need to be able to maneuver around your vehicle and get straight to all those awkward, hard-to-reach places on the chassis. Features that increase the portability on Plasti Dip sprayers include a lightweight body, a long power cord, and in the case of a stationary turbine-driven unit, a lengthy flexible hose.
Correct Nozzle Size
Ideally, you’ll lay down several relatively thick coatings of Plasti Dip, and a fluid tip with a wide opening makes this process a whole lot easier.
Functional Technology
This being said, there are always exceptions to the rule and there are some airless paint sprayers for Plasti Dip fitted with bespoke low-pressure nozzles that do the job equally well — such as the Graco Ultra Cordless Airless Handheld Paint Sprayer, a unit I cover in more detail later in this review.
How To Use a Plasti Dip Spray Gun
What You Will Need to Follow This Tutorial
To make your motor gleam, ensure you have everything gathered together before you start.
- Plasti dip spray gun.
- Plasti dip compatible nozzle.
- Plasti dip in your desired color.
- Stir sticks.
- Fan.
- Soapy water.
- Cleaning cloth.
- Drying cloth.
- Plastic sheeting.
- Masking tape.
- Groundsheet or drop cloth.
- Personal protective gear — gloves, goggles, coveralls, and face mask.
How To Spray a Car Body: Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Preparing Your Automobile and Workspace
- Wash your car thoroughly with a mixture of soap and water, then let it dry. It’s imperative that there is no dirt, oil, grease, or loose rust present for the best results. Ideally, you want to apply Plasti Dip to blemish-free original equipment manufacturer (OEM) finishes.
- Lay a drop cloth on the floor where you’ll work and drive the car over it.
- Cover items that you don’t intend to spray with plastic sheeting and secure in place using masking tape.
- Make sure that your workspace is well ventilated, either by opening windows or setting up a fan.
- Dress in all of your protective gear and get ready to get to work.
Step 2: Start Dipping
- Set up your paint gun for Plasti Dip following the manufacturer’s guidelines, following the volume output suggested in the unit’s manual. Double-check that you have the correct fluid nozzle installed.
- Before adding your Plasti Dip coating to the unit, mix it thoroughly using a stir stick to ensure an even color. Then transfer the paint to your Plasti Dip sprayer’s paint container.
- Start dipping! Keep the nozzle at a distance of 10 to 12 inches away from the surface and apply even strokes. Make sure that you overlap each wet coat by at least fifty percent for total coverage. Continue until the entire body has at least one layer.
- The previous coating needs to dry for between 10 and 30 minutes before applying subsequent coats.
- For the best performance of this coating, a minimum of five coats (0.4-inch thickness in total) is recommended for easy removal. Based on this, repeat step three another four times.
Top Tip: Most dip-coating projects will not need to be primed first as Plasti Dip shrinks around items when drying. That said, if you live in a place where the weather conditions are extreme, primer is a good idea. You can use either Plasti Dip Primer or a high-quality acrylic primer that’s designed for automotive work.
Step 3: Finishing Touches
- When you have finished with the fifth and final coat, leave the car to dry for a minimum of four hours before use.
- Clean your Plasti Dip paint sprayer immediately after you’ve finished. Rinse it thoroughly to remove any residue and prolong the lifetime of your sprayer.
- Remove all the tape and plastic sheeting you used for protection.
- Once the car is completely dry, you can drive it off the floor cloth and tidy the workspace.
And that’s it, unless of course that you decide that the original color you chose does not work for you, in which case you can simply peel it all off at start over!
Six of the Best Spray Guns for Plasti Dip
As it’s a floor-based unit, the majority of the weight stays on the ground and away from your arms, which allows you to operate for longer. The 5.5-foot power cable and 13-foot hose provide ample reach around even the largest of trucks.
At the business end of things, the 2.0-mm needle and tip set is the prime size for spraying Plasti Dip while reducing overspray. When you’re done for the day, all the components fit neatly into the unit’s integrated storage — keep everything in one place, ready for next time.
Earlex manufacturers machines for DIYers and professionals who take pride in their craftsmanship. Based in Minneapolis, Earlex is a subsidiary of the fluid handling giant, Wagner SprayTech.
- Three spray patterns.
- Integrated storage.
- One-quart paint cup.
- 2.0-mm stainless steel nozzle and needle.
- 13-foot hose.
- The price point may be too high for occasional users.
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
As it’s a floor-based unit, the majority of the weight stays on the ground and away from your arms, which allows you to operate for longer. The 5.5-foot power cable and 13-foot hose provide ample reach around even the largest of trucks.
A dynamic action trigger and volume control dial allow you to tailor the 650-watt machine’s output. You can adjust this machine to suit small tasks and those full-body resprays. A one-quart PTFE (Teflon) paint container holds enough medium for the majority of automotive tasks.
At the business end of things, the 2.0-mm needle and tip set is the prime size for spraying Plasti Dip while reducing overspray. When you’re done for the day, all the components fit neatly into the unit’s integrated storage — keep everything in one place, ready for next time.
Earlex manufacturers machines for DIYers and professionals who take pride in their craftsmanship. Based in Minneapolis, Earlex is a subsidiary of the fluid handling giant, Wagner SprayTech.
- Three spray patterns.
- Integrated storage.
- One-quart paint cup.
- 2.0-mm stainless steel nozzle and needle.
- 13-foot hose.
- The price point may be too high for occasional users.
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
There are many great features that set it apart from others, but one of the highlights is the quick-connect swivel hose attachment that provides complete operational freedom when moving around your vehicle.
Not only does the DipTip fluid nozzle have a great name, but it’s also perfectly sized to apply Plasti Dip. It provides fine atomization and a better overall finish when compared to non-specific nozzles.
When we look at the turbine power of this device, it has a 50 percent higher pressure output (psi) than previous models in its range.
The turbine itself is housed in a black casing that keeps dirt and moisture away from the internal mechanics. It also makes this machine easier to handle by keeping the bulk of the weight on the ground.
A generous 1.5-quart paint cup is one of the larger cups in the world of dip sprayers, which is both a plus point and a drawback. The size means fewer refills, but filling it to capacity adds weight to the unit.
One of the biggest plus points is the spares kits. It’s intelligently put together and contains most of the perishable parts that need future replacement. The spares kit features two needles, needle replacement tools, a spare gasket, an extra filter, and a gallon blender that attaches to your home drill to mix the medium before use.
Dip Your Car is a branch of Earlex specializing in tools and accessories for automotive dipping. Created by Fonzie, who maintains he was the first person to use Plasti Dip on his car, the company has grown since 2011 and now provides spray guns for Plasti Dip and community support in the form of YouTube tutorials and expert advice.
- Purposely designed for use with Plasti Dip.
- Comes with a plethora of accessories.
- 16.5-foot quick-connect and anti-kink hose.
- 1.5-quart paint container.
- Floor-based turbine.
- Bespoke DipTip.
- Could be unsuitable for use with other coatings.
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
There are many great features that set it apart from others, but one of the highlights is the quick-connect swivel hose attachment that provides complete operational freedom when moving around your vehicle. It also prevents the flow-interrupting kinks that can result in less-than-even coverage. The hose is 16.5-foot long and lockable, meaning that it shouldn’t just jump out during operation.
Not only does the DipTip fluid nozzle have a great name, but it’s also perfectly sized to apply Plasti Dip. It provides fine atomization and a better overall finish when compared to non-specific nozzles.
When we look at the turbine power of this device, it has a 50 percent higher pressure output (psi) than previous models in its range.
The turbine itself is housed in a black casing that keeps dirt and moisture away from the internal mechanics. It also makes this machine easier to handle by keeping the bulk of the weight on the ground.
A generous 1.5-quart paint cup is one of the larger cups in the world of dip sprayers, which is both a plus point and a drawback. The size means fewer refills, but filling it to capacity adds weight to the unit.
One of the biggest plus points is the spares kits. It’s intelligently put together and contains most of the perishable parts that need future replacement. The spares kit features two needles, needle replacement tools, a spare gasket, an extra filter, and a gallon blender that attaches to your home drill to mix the medium before use.
Dip Your Car is a branch of Earlex specializing in tools and accessories for automotive dipping. Created by Fonzie, who maintains he was the first person to use Plasti Dip on his car, the company has grown since 2011 and now provides spray guns for Plasti Dip and community support in the form of YouTube tutorials and expert advice.
- Purposely designed for use with Plasti Dip.
- Comes with a plethora of accessories.
- 16.5-foot quick-connect and anti-kink hose.
- 1.5-quart paint container.
- Floor-based turbine.
- Bespoke DipTip.
- Could be unsuitable for use with other coatings.
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
This innovative tip features a unique geometric design that delivers one of the most flawless finishes of any low-pressure airless sprayer.
Powered by two rechargeable Lithium-Ion 20-volt batteries instead of a power cord, you can maneuver around your project without hoses or power cables to limit you.
Additionally, the FlexLiner Bag system not only holds enough coating for most jobs but also facilitates a 360-degree spraying angle.
You have complete control of the pressure output courtesy of the advanced SmartControl system. And when it comes to storing the device away after use, everything fits neatly into a handy carry case.
Graco Inc. has been in operation for over a century after starting out as a small family-run company. Through the years, its products have become synonymous with innovative technology and high quality. Graco tools are respected by both ardent DIYers and professionals.
- One-quart FlexLiner bags.
- Battery-powered.
- 514 airless nozzle.
- Multi-angle spraying ability.
- Storage bag.
- Sprays one gallon per charge.
- FlexLiner bags are tricky to clean thoroughly.
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
This innovative tip features a unique geometric design that delivers one of the most flawless finishes of any low-pressure airless sprayer. Furthermore, the Reverse-A-Clean system means that if clogs occur, you simply twist the nozzle 180 degrees to keep on operating.
Powered by two rechargeable Lithium-Ion 20-volt batteries instead of a power cord, you can maneuver around your project without hoses or power cables to limit you.
Additionally, the FlexLiner Bag system not only holds enough coating for most jobs but also facilitates a 360-degree spraying angle.
You have complete control of the pressure output courtesy of the advanced SmartControl system. And when it comes to storing the device away after use, everything fits neatly into a handy carry case.
Graco Inc. has been in operation for over a century after starting out as a small family-run company. Through the years, its products have become synonymous with innovative technology and high quality. Graco tools are respected by both ardent DIYers and professionals.
- One-quart FlexLiner bags.
- Battery-powered.
- 514 airless nozzle.
- Multi-angle spraying ability.
- Storage bag.
- Sprays one gallon per charge.
- FlexLiner bags are tricky to clean thoroughly.
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
Wagner’s spray gun for Plasti Dip offers complete adjustability and it’s easy to customize the output to your project’s size. Furthermore, the two-stage turbine produces enough power to atomize most paints into the fine particles necessary for a smooth result.
Arriving with two differently sized paint cups, you have the possibility to further adapt this machine. Additionally, the 20-foot hose that connects the body of the sprayer to the shooter offers substantial reach.
Wagner SprayTech is renowned for its user-friendly HVLP machines. Over the years, it appears to be aiming for paint world domination and has taken ownership of Titan Tools, Earlex, and HomeRight, all respected brands.
- Interchangeable 1.5 and 1-quart paint cups.
- Control Finish fluid tip.
- Three spray patterns.
- 20-foot flexible hose.
- Straightforward to operate.
- Attractive price point.
- Unsuitable for large tasks.
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
Wagner’s spray gun for Plasti Dip offers complete adjustability and it’s easy to customize the output to your project’s size. Furthermore, the two-stage turbine produces enough power to atomize most paints into the fine particles necessary for a smooth result.
You have the option of three separate spray patterns (round, vertical, and horizontal). All you need to do is twist the Control Finish nozzle’s ears. Another easy-to-use feature is the Lock-N-Go system, which permits a one-button quick parts breakdown for cleaning and switching over cups.
Arriving with two differently sized paint cups, you have the possibility to further adapt this machine. Additionally, the 20-foot hose that connects the body of the sprayer to the shooter offers substantial reach.
Wagner SprayTech is renowned for its user-friendly HVLP machines. Over the years, it appears to be aiming for paint world domination and has taken ownership of Titan Tools, Earlex, and HomeRight, all respected brands.
- Interchangeable 1.5 and 1-quart paint cups.
- Control Finish fluid tip.
- Three spray patterns.
- 20-foot flexible hose.
- Straightforward to operate.
- Attractive price point.
- Unsuitable for large tasks.
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
A powerful 1400-watt, two-stage motor permits finishes that wouldn’t look out of place in the showroom. It arrives with a 1.3-mm fluid nozzle as standard, but if required will support additional cap sizes of 0.8 to 2.0 mm (available at extra cost).
When you stop for a well-deserved break, a handy spray gun holster on the turbine housing keeps your gun off the floor and protects it from contamination.
Canadian-based Fuji Spray has developed HVLP paint solution for almost four decades. Its products serve the needs of weekend warriors and professionals who demand robust and reliable tools.
- 0.42-quart paint cup.
- 1400-watt, two-stage turbine.
- Variable pressure output.
- 25-foot hose.
- 1.3-mm air cap set.
- Could be over-specced for occasional users.
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
A powerful 1400-watt, two-stage motor permits finishes that wouldn’t look out of place in the showroom. It arrives with a 1.3-mm fluid nozzle as standard, but if required will support additional cap sizes of 0.8 to 2.0 mm (available at extra cost).
Maintenance is simplified as the turbine’s filters can be changed rapidly. Furthermore, as the bulk of the machine remains on the floor, you won’t feel like you’ve completed a full-body workout after using this device. The Stay-Cool handle prevents sweaty palms and fits comfortably to promote a more enjoyable spraying experience.
When you stop for a well-deserved break, a handy spray gun holster on the turbine housing keeps your gun off the floor and protects it from contamination.
Canadian-based Fuji Spray has developed HVLP paint solution for almost four decades. Its products serve the needs of weekend warriors and professionals who demand robust and reliable tools.
- 0.42-quart paint cup.
- 1400-watt, two-stage turbine.
- Variable pressure output.
- 25-foot hose.
- 1.3-mm air cap set.
- Could be over-specced for occasional users.
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
Two different fluid nozzles are included on arrival. Use the iSpray for expansive tasks that require viscous coatings and the Detail Finish nozzle for trim, grills, and fenders. To complement the two nozzles, you also have adjustable pattern width, direction, and volume output.
The high-flex hose measures a monumental 39-feet and offers complete maneuverability around any vehicle. When it comes to clean-up, the Lock-N-Go system makes short work of these tasks by offering a straightforward breakdown of the component parts.
Hailing from Wagner SprayTech, this unit includes Wagner’s impressive warranty. Its sprayers are a popular choice for hobbyists, home-improvers, full-time contractors, and rental shop owners.
- Versatile spray gun.
- Two fluid nozzles.
- 1.5 and 1-quart paint containers.
- 39-foot hose.
- X-Boost turbine with variable output.
- Self-contained portable design.
- Can be prone to overspray.
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
Two different fluid nozzles are included on arrival. Use the iSpray for expansive tasks that require viscous coatings and the Detail Finish nozzle for trim, grills, and fenders. To complement the two nozzles, you also have adjustable pattern width, direction, and volume output.
This Plasti Dip sprayer by Wagner is a fully self-contained unit, you won’t need an external compressor courtesy of the X-Boost turbine. Despite being all-in-one, it’s still incredibly portable and lightweight at under nine pounds.
The high-flex hose measures a monumental 39-feet and offers complete maneuverability around any vehicle. When it comes to clean-up, the Lock-N-Go system makes short work of these tasks by offering a straightforward breakdown of the component parts.
Hailing from Wagner SprayTech, this unit includes Wagner’s impressive warranty. Its sprayers are a popular choice for hobbyists, home-improvers, full-time contractors, and rental shop owners.
- Versatile spray gun.
- Two fluid nozzles.
- 1.5 and 1-quart paint containers.
- 39-foot hose.
- X-Boost turbine with variable output.
- Self-contained portable design.
- Can be prone to overspray.
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
Conclusion
You should opt for an HVLP machine or an airless system that offers fine atomization and low pressure settings. Additionally, look out for a suitably sized fluid tip that can lay thick coatings.
Portability is also a desirable trait so you can easily access the whole vehicle. Look for a handheld unit or floor-based device with a lengthy hose. Adjustable pressure settings are essential so you can switch from main panel resprays to fender touch-ups with ease.
Color your car as often as you please (for much cheaper than sending it to the shop) and be the envy of your fellow automotive enthusiasts with the best Plasti Dip spray guns.
Plasti Dip Spray Gun FAQs
Q: Can You Spray Plasti Dip With a Regular Paint Gun?
Yes, you can spray Plasti Dip with a paint gun but some devices are far more suited to this task than others. For a comprehensive overview, check out the necessary features of Plasti Dip sprayers above.
Q: Do You Have To Thin Plasti Dip for Use in a Paint Sprayer?
Usually not. The majority of Plasti Dip coatings are designed for use with paint sprayers in mind. However, always check the spray gun manufacturer’s directions for the most accurate up-to-date advice.
Q: Can I Leave Plasti Dip in My Sprayer Overnight?
No. Please don’t ever be tempted to leave Plasti Dip in your sprayer overnight. If this medium is permitted to dry in situ, it could cause irreparable damage to your spray gun. Instead, clean your device thoroughly after use with Plasti Dip.
Q: Is It Better To Spray or Brush Plasti Dip?
To achieve a flawless, even Plasti Dip finish that peels away easily, it’s always best to spray Plasti Dip with a high-quality paint gun.
Q: Is It Dangerous To Spray Plasti Dip?
So long as you apply Plasti Dip in a well-ventilated area and wear the appropriate personal protection, it is not dangerous to spray Plasti Dip.