For Modelers that paint with Scale Coat II

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

Hi crew,

The following may be helpful to modelers that still have Scale Coat II paint mixes in their stock but are either low or out of the Scale Coat thinner.

Respectfully, due to the “hit or miss” factor I would not recommend using acetone, mineral spirits or even the Kleen Strip brand versions, as you can wind up with an unwanted chemical reaction (lifting or crazing).

I’ve experimented before and found that straight solvent based Automotive Lacquer Thinner thins SC II nicely with no adverse effects.

I was fortunate in that I purchased quite a bit of Scale Coat II before Minuteman models left the market (sad to say) and have been using H.E.T-1501 Wash Thinner for the past several years. A good number of Auto Body Supply stores stock it and so does Advance Auto Parts. It’s in the $21 to $25 range for a one-gallon can. One can lasted me over 5 years! This thinner is used by professionals to clean out spray guns and airbrushes. It’s not as “potent” as the higher caliber “straight” automotive solvent based lacquer thinners, it works well with SCII.

I’m not shilling for H.E.T, just sharing that there is a usable substitute for Scale Coat thinner.

Regardless, we should always use a paint respirator, in a well ventilated area, when spraying these products.

2

Thanks for the for info. I have the loco black left that I am about to paint a couple of brass steamers. This was hands down the best paint for brass. I wish like heck I had bought some pullman green before Minuteman stopped as I have about five brass hallmark heavyweights to paint yet.

SB

3

Antonio,

Thank you for posting this. Advanced shows out of stock and N/A to order but I did order a gallon from Amazon.

Wondering if you tried this thinner with F

4

Hey gentlemen, you’re most welcome!

It dawned on me that airbrush painters (myself included) tend to run out of thinner before running out of paint, so it seemed like a helpful idea to give a heads up regarding thinners that are compatible with Scale Coat paint.

Jim, unfortunately I ran out of Floquil paint years back, so I have not tried using the H.E.T thinner on Floquil mixes.

You can try mixing a small amount of Floquil and the thinner for a test mix and spray. If you do, please share your results here.[:D]