General FAQs

Below you will find answers to the most commonly asked Questions about Rust Bullet Coatings and their application. It is recommended that you read these along with the Application Guidelines. Click Here for a printable PDF version

General Information
Safety Guidelines
Important points for a Successful project
What is the recommended surface preparation for Rust Bullet Coatings?
Should I apply Rust Bullet only where rust is apparent?
Can Rust Bullet be applied on damp or wet surfaces?
Product Preparation - Stirring & Mixing
What can be used to thin Rust Bullet?
Can I pour Rust Bullet into another container?
What is the temperature service range of Rust Bullet Coatings?
How can Rust Bullet Coatings be applied?
What is the difference between Conventional, HVLP, Turbine HVLP and Trans-Tech (LVMP) technologies?
Why do I need to apply at least to coats of Rust Bullet?
How can I tell when to apply the next coat of Rust Bullet?
What do I do if I waited too long to apply my next coat of Rust Bullet?
When can I apply a Topcoat?
Why do I have bleed through?
What causes bubbling in the finish of a project coated with Rust Bullet?
How do I remove Rust Bullet from skin?
What are the proper equipment and clean-up procedures?
Can Rust Bullet be applied over fibreglass?
What is the proper storage and handling of Rust Bullet Products?

1. General Information

Rust Bullet's "Application Guidelines" are included with every order.

To ensure you achieve the best possible results, it is extremely important that these Application Guidelines are read thoroughly before using Rust Bullet Products.

The selection of the right coating system must be based on an analysis of the target substrate, and of the typically occurring atmospheric exposures. Rust Bullet, LLC or your country supplier is at your disposal to assist in this process. The information in Rust Bullet's FAQ's and Technical Data is based on extensive laboratory testing, combined with field experience, and believed to be correct. However, Rust Bullet, LLC makes no warranty nor assumes any liability or obligation in connection with its use. This edition cancels all previous editions. Data is subject to change without notice.

Rust Bullet and Rust Bullet Automotive are Super-Tough, High-Performance, Industrial Grade Coatings that can be Applied Directly over Rusted Metal and Clean Surfaces, Providing Permanent Protection with Phenomenal Adhesion. Rust Bullet has been awarded an Unprecedented Two U.S. Patents by the UnitedStates Patent and Trademark Office.

Rust Bullet BlackShell, WhiteShell, ColorShells, and Clear Shot are formulated specifically as topcoats for both Rust Bullet formulas if a smooth gloss black, white or clear finish is desired. These topcoats are scratch and chip resistant, UV resistant, as well as, resistant to Acid Splash and Chemical Solvents. They are an excellent protective standalone coating, requiring no basecoat or topcoat and will easily out-perform other protective coatings; however, the unbeatable combination of our specially formulated topcoats over Rust Bullet or Rust Bullet Automotive will provide the absolute best protection against rust and corrosion available today. Rust Bullet BlackShell, WhiteShell, and ColorShells are ANSI Z535 Compliant OSHA SafetyColors. ColorShells are available in Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue and Purple.

Rust Bullet Rapid Fire Accelerator is designed for spray applications of Rust Bullet Standard, Rust Bullet Automotive, and Rust Bullet Topcoats. Rapid Fire decreases the drying time needed between coats, ultimately reducing project completion times up to 80% while maintaining optimal coating performance.

Rust Bullet Metal Blast Rust Dissolver, Surface Cleaner and Conditioner removes rust, grease and contaminates. Metal Blast eliminates the high cost of extensive surface preparations by properly etching surfaces with minimal or poor adhesive qualities providing an ideal anchor pattern for a superior coating bond. Metal Blast enhances the adhesive properties of all Rust Bullet Coatings on any metal surface including aluminum, stainless steel and shiny polished metal resulting in optimum coating performance. Metal Blast dissolves rust from metal tools and equipment, as well as other rusted surfaces, adding years of performance to any paint project.

Bloxygen Blocks Oxygen, Protects and Preserves opened Rust Bullet Coatings During Storage. Bloxygen uses ultra-pure Argon, an inert gas, to drive the oxygen out of partially used containers of Rust Bullet Coatings and preserve the paint for future use. Simply blow the oxygen out of the container with Bloxygenand then appropriately seal the lid. The heavier inert Bloxygen gas sinks down to block oxygen from thepaint, separating the paint from any air that may remain in the container, causing the coating to begin the curing process.

Rust Bullet Solvent for cleanup, equipment prep, and the thinning of Rust Bullet Coatings. Effectively clean equipment such as paint pots, lines, guns, brushes and rollers, as well as spills, drips and overspray from coatings applications. Flushes, cleans and preps spray equipment prior to application. Use to thoroughly flush and clean spray equipment between coats and after use to avoid possible damage to spray equipment. The approximate thinning ratio is 3% to 5% by volume (i.e. 1 to 1.5 oz. solvent per quart ofcoating).
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2. Safety Guidelines

The Rust Bullet Application Guidelines and Products MSDS contain all safety recommendations for preparation, application and clean up.

A certain degree of risk is involved in the use, or more properly, the misuse, of most industrial materials; Rust Bullet is no exception to this rule. Ensure adequate ventilation and fresh air when working with Rust Bullet coatings. Use a NIOSH Approved Half-Mask Organic Vapor Respirator and a P100 filter attached with a filter cover. Filters must be changed if and when they become saturated. Wear protective clothing,gloves, and eye protection during set up, application, and clean up.

Due to the superior adhesive properties of Rust Bullet, we strongly recommend that protective clothing be worn including long sleeves and a spray sock. It is critical to avoid any conditions that may cause a fire. Avoid open flames, pilot lights, sparks, heating elements, cigarettes, or any and all possible sources of ignition.

Warning! If you scrape, sand, or remove old paint, you may release lead dust. LEAD IS TOXIC. EXPOSURE TO LEAD DUST CAN CAUSE SERIOUS ILLNESS, SUCH AS BRAIN DAMAGE, ESPECIALLY IN CHILDREN. PREGNANT WOMEN SHOULD ALSO AVOID EXPOSURE. Wear a NIOSH-Approved respirator to control lead exposure. Clean up carefully with a HEPA vacuum and a wet mop. Before you start, find out how to protect yourself and your family by contacting the National Lead Information Hotline at 1-800-424-LEAD or log onto www.EPA.GOV/LEAD.

Rust Bullet Solvent
Warning: Hazard & Prevention: Flammable Liquid and Vapor / Harmful or Fatal if swallowed. Harmful if inhaled. May affect central nervous system causing dizziness, headache or nausea. Prolonged or repeated contact may dry skin and cause irritation and burns. Respiratory and Skin irritant and sensitizer. Avoid contact with skin and eyes. Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects. Use in well ventilated areas. Close container after each use. Keep away from heat/sparks, open flame/hot surfaces – No Smoking. Use only non-sparking tools. Take precautionary measures against static discharge. Wear protectivegloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. Store in a cool, dry, ventilated area, out of direct sunlight. For spills/leaks, collect liquid in appropriate container or absorb with inert material (vermiculite, dry sand, earth) and place in chemical waste container. Dispose of in accordance with US Federal, State and local hazardous waste disposal regulations.

Warning: This product does contain an ingredient(s) designated by IARC, NTP, ACGIH, OSHA or European Chemical Commission as probable or suspected human carcinogens. FIRST AID: Skin Exposure: If this product contaminates the skin, begin decontamination with running water. Remove exposed or contaminated clothing. Eye Exposure: If product enters the eyes, open contaminated individual's eyes while under gently running water. Use sufficient force to open eyelids. Remove contact lenses if worn. Have contaminated individual "roll" eyes. Minimum flushing is for 15 minutes. Inhalation: If vapors/mists generated by this product are inhaled, remove contaminated individual to fresh air. Contaminated individual must seek medical attention if irritation develops or persists or if visual changes occur. Seek medical attention if any adverse effect occurs from any exposure. Ingestion: If this product is swallowed,CALL PHYSICIAN OR POISON CONTROL CENTER FOR MOST CURRENT INFORMATION. DO NOT induce vomiting; if vomiting occurs spontaneously, keep head below hips to prevent aspiration of liquid into lungs. Never induce vomiting or give diluents (milk or water) to someone who is unconscious, having convulsions, or unable to swallow. SEEK IMMEDIATE MEDICAL ATTENTION. Refer to MSDS at www.RustBullet.com or call 800-245-1600 for more complete product information including; Safety, Use, Storage and Disposal information.
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3. Important points for a successful project

Rust Bullet coatings are generally ready to use right from the can. Rust Bullet Solvent may be used to thin coatings by 3% - 5% by volume. Rust Bullet Coatings should be stirred thoroughly for at least 3 minutes or until completely uniform and homogenous (avoid whipping air into product). Shaking the container prior to application may cause the formation of bubbles in the finish of the coating. Never stir the product by mechanical means; this will trap air molecules containing moisture between the coating and the surface causing improper curing and possible coating failure. Pour out of the can what you intend to use in the next 45-60 min. Remember to keep the lid on the remaining product.

Use only Rust Bullet Solvent for cleanup, equipment prep and thinning. Never allow lacquer thinner, vinyl thinner, epoxy solvent, or any alcohol or unapproved solvent to enter a Rust Bullet coating.

For clean-up use Rust Bullet Solvent. Flush Solvent through pump, line and gun to remove any existing moisture or alcohol from previous coatings or solvents. Do not re-circulate the solvent through the pump, as the solvent will be contaminated with moisture and debris. Draw solvent from one container and flush into another. Never allow old solvent in the coating lines to enter Rust Bullet.

Always purge all paints, moisture, or debris from equipment before spraying a Rust Bullet coating. UseRust Bullet Solvent for all equipment prep prior to use.

Never apply a Rust Bullet coating while raining or under threat of rain. Never allow sweat, rain, mist orother contaminates to fall into a Rust Bullet coating. Even a drop or two can drastically affect results.

Rust Bullet Coatings do not require a topcoat. If one is desired, wait 24 to 48 hours after the application of the final coat of Rust Bullet.

Only pour out what you intend to use in one hour and replace the lid immediately. Wipe clean any coating from the rim of the container before resealing. Use Bloxygen to displace oxygen prior to resealing to prevent curing of previously opened Rust Bullet Coatings.

Never pour back into the original container; any Rust Bullet Coating that has been exposed to outside air for any length of time, as this will destroy the remaining product.

Care should be taken to ensure that new unopened containers or left-over partial containers are kept fresh, viable and properly sealed. Use Bloxygen to displace oxygen with an inert Argon Gas to prevent curing of previously opened containers. This will reduce waste and project costs.

NOTE: If Rust Bullet Solvent is unavailable, xylene, toulene or acetone may be substituted.
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4. What is the recommended surface preparation for Rust Bullet Coatings?

The surface to be coated must be completely dry. All surfaces must be free of loose rust, paint, moisture, dirt, mildew, oily substances, wax and loose particles. Remove any loose rust, loose paint, or loose mill scale by lightly scraping, sanding, or wire brushing. If necessary, we recommend cleaning the surface with Rust Bullet Metal Blast. No additional surface preparation is necessary as Rust Bullet bonds with metal to kill the rust and form a super-tough, armor-like coating. Remember that the surface to be coated must becompletely dry. Rust Bullet will penetrate some paints by just scuffing up the painted surface prior to application; however, Rust Bullet works best when in direct contact with the rusted surface or bare metal.When media blasting a surface prior to a Rust Bullet application, Soda Blasting, Dry Ice Blasting and Hydro-Blasting are three methods of media blasting that are effective, clean and environmentally safe. All media are sound options and clean up will be relatively minor.
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5. Should I apply Rust Bullet only where rust is apparent?

Rust Bullet is designed to protect rusted and clean metal. It is always advantageous to protect metal, even when there are no visible signs of corrosion. If Rust Bullet is applied only in the rusted areas, it will stop the rust on that surface area, but the uncoated area will be left unprotected. Remember, if it’s made of iron or steel, it will rust and corrode if left unprotected.
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6. Can Rust Bullet be applied on damp or wet surfaces?

Rust Bullet is moisture sensitive. It is extremely important that the surface to be coated is completely dry to allow proper curing and adhesion. Extreme care should be taken to ensure all coating projects are completely dry.
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7. Product Preparation - Stirring & Mixing

Do not open and stir a Rust Bullet Coating when the temperature is below the dew point. Rust Bullet Coatings should be stirred thoroughly for at least 3 minutes or until completely uniform and homogenous (avoid whipping air into product). Shaking the container prior to application may cause the formation of bubbles in the finish of the coating. Never stir the product by mechanical means; this will trap air molecules containing moisture between the coating and the surface causing improper curing and possible coating failure.

Rust Bullet Products that have been sitting for six months or longer may develop settling. Follow the same stirring instructions, but increase the stir time and be sure to break up any clumps on the bottom of the container, if any.

The exact balance of viscosity, solvent, and active ingredients must be maintained; therefore, Rust Bullet Coatings must only be thinned with Rust Bullet Solvent. Thinning or adding any other product to a Rust Bullet Coating will compromise the performance and quality of the finished product. Use RustBullet Solvent at an approximate ratio of 3% - 5% by volume (i.e. 1.0 to 1.5 oz solvent per quart of coating.
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8. What can be used to thin Rust Bullet?

The exact balance of viscosity, solvent, and active ingredients must be maintained; therefore, Rust Bullet Coatings must only be thinned with Rust Bullet Solvent. Thinning or adding any other product to a Rust Bullet Coating will compromise the performance and quality of the finished product. Use Rust Bullet Solvent for thinning at an approximate ratio of 3% - 5% by volume (i.e. 1.0 to 1.5 oz solvent per quart of coating.
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9. Can I pour Rust Bullet into another container?

Yes. If, for any reason, Rust Bullet is transferred to another container; clean, unlined, metal paint cans (or similar unlined metal containers) must be used. Make sure that the container can be properly sealed. Stir the contents for at least three minutes before transferring any portion of product to a different container. During application, pour out the portion you will use in approximately one hour and reseal the lid as soon as possible. Use Bloxygen to displace the oxygen with an inert gas (Argon), to prevent curing of previous opened containers of Rust Bullet Coating.
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10. What is the temperature service range of Rust Bullet Coatings?

After curing, all Rust Bullet coatings have a service temperature range of 314°F (157°C) continuous, and can tolerate maximum temperatures between 617°- 662°F (325°-350°C) for up to 72 hour periods.
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11. How can Rust Bullet Coatings be applied?

Brush or Roller Application: All Rust Bullet Coatings can be applied with a brush or roller if spray equipment is not available. We recommend using a close nap roller for most projects. Always keep a wet edge on the tip of your paint brush. Apply evenly without buildup using the crosshatch method (up and down and side to side motion); nice even coats using the crosshatch application method will produce the best results.

HVLP Spray Gun: The Rust Bullet Automotive Formula is thinner than the Rust Bullet Standard Formula allowing it to flow easily through HVLP spray equipment. Rust Bullet Automotive is designed to provide a shiny smooth paintable finish. When applying with an HVLP spray system, use a primer size tip, dependent upon the equipment and the psi this may range from a 1.7 to 2.0 tip at 40-60 psi. A minimum dry film thickness of 6 mils must be applied to the project surface for the optimum protection; some applications require additional coats to achieve the appropriate dft expressed in the Rust Bullet Application Guidelines. Prior to spraying, run Rust Bullet Solvent through the spray equipment to remove any moisture that is trapped in the sprayer. After each coat of Rust Bullet is applied, flush the gun or submerge the tip in RustBullet Solvent. Application equipment must be cleaned with Rust Bullet Solvent immediately after use to avoid damage to the sprayer. If there is a filter in the gun it must also be cleaned. Approximately 24-48 hours after the application of the final coat of Rust Bullet, a topcoat may be applied. Rust Bullet is metallic gray in color; it is only necessary to apply a top coat if you desire a different color other than metallic gray. Rust Bullet BlackShell, WhiteShell, ColorShells and Clear Shot are formulated specifically to topcoat Rust Bullet if a smooth gloss black, white, color or clear finish is desired. These finish coats are scratch and chip resistant, UV resistant, as well as, resistant to Acid Splash and Chemical Solvents. Although, they are excellent protective stand alone coatings, requiring no basecoat or topcoat the combination of the RustBullet Topcoats and Rust Bullet Standard or Rust Bullet Automotive will provide unbeatable surfaceprotection.

Airless & Commercial Spray Equipment: The best results are achieved by applying the Rust Bullet Standard Formula using an airless spray system. An airless spray application will generally produce a minimum dry film thickness of 3 to 4 mils per coat. When using airless or commercial spray equipment to apply Rust Bullet Products a primer size tip is recommended, depending upon equipment and other variables, a 517 to 523 tip at an approximate 2000 - 3000 psi is recommended. Rust Bullet Solvent is recommended for the preparation and cleanup of all spray equipment. When the spray gun is not in use, such as between coats, it should be completely submerged in a container of Rust Bullet Solvent. Application equipment must be thoroughly cleaned immediately after use to avoid damage; any remaining Rust Bullet Coating will cure and likely destroy the equipment.

Airless Spray Tips: Rust Bullet Standard is supplied ready to stir and apply with an airless sprayer. If thinning is necessary, use Rust Bullet Solvent at an approximate ratio of 3% to 5% by volume (i.e. 1.0 to 1.5 oz per quart of coating).

Straining through a nylon bag strainer is recommended. Follow Stirring Instructions thoroughly before application.

Recommended tip size is a 517 to 523 for industrial and commercial applications. Smaller projects using an airless application may require an adjustment of the tip size to decrease both the fan and the amount ofproduct projected through the tip.

Inspect all spray equipment and ensure it is clean and in good working order prior to application.

Flush Rust Bullet Solvent through pump, line and gun to remove any existing moisture or alcohol from previous coatings or solvents. Do not re-circulate the Rust Bullet Solvent through the pump, as the Solvent will be contaminated with moisture and debris. Draw Rust Bullet Solvent from one container and flush into another. Never allow old solvent in the coating lines to enter Rust Bullet.

Overspray is unavoidable with a spray application however most airless sprayers now have adjustable pressure control to spray a wider range of materials with more control and reduced overspray. Overspray is controlled by the operator and the choices made, such as tip size, tip condition (new or used, clean or dirty etc.), pressure used to spray, distance between the spray gun and surface, angle of spray gun in relation to surface, and wind, etc. Any airless sprayer will produce some form of overspray, but there are two main ways to help reduce the overspray; a) set your pressure control at the lowest possible pressure,while still maintaining a solid fan pattern; b) ensure that the correct tip size is being used. Using a tip that is too large, will only result in excess paint being applied to the surface.

Ensure that minimum cure times are followed before the application of a subsequent coat. When applying additional coats of Rust Bullet or Rust Bullet Topcoats, the previous coat should not be wet or tacky; if youare unable to transfer the coating to a gloved finger then it is safe to apply an additional coat. Approximatedrying time between coats is two (2) to four (4) hours for Rust Bullet coatings, depending on humidity levels. When excessive wet film is applied, additional cure time will be necessary.

NOTE: If Rust BulletSolvent is unavailable, xylene, toluene or acetone may be substituted.
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12. What is the difference between Conventional, HVLP, Turbine HVLP and Trans-Tech(LVMP) technologies?

Conventional: Conventional spray guns typically operate at pressures of 40- 60PSI out of the air cap. Atomization is typically better than HVLP and slightly better than Trans-Tech. It is common for the transfer efficiency (percentage of paint solids reaching the parts) to be 50% or less.

HVLP: High Volume Low Pressure – These guns are considered to be 65% efficient or better and are compliant with the California South Coast Air Quality Management District. The high volume of air exiting the air cap is what helps to atomize the material. The pressure of the air exiting the air cap is 40-60PSI or less. Turbine HVLP: Much the same characteristics as HVLP except that the air source is a turbine. Turbine HVLP guns have the advantage of being more portable than HVLP guns but have the drawback of a large diameter air hose from the turbine to the handle of the gun. The large diameter hose substantially hinders the movement of the spray gun.

Trans-Tech (LVMP): Trans-Tech spray guns operate on low volume, medium pressures, typically 10-20PSI; transfer efficiencies are typically about 60% or better. Trans-tech technology approaches the finish quality of a conventional spray gun at near the efficiency of HVLP. Trans-Tech is used where compliance is not required but cost savings is important.
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13. Why do I need to apply at least two coats of Rust Bullet?

Rust Bullet releases carbon dioxide gas during the curing process. This “gassing off” process may create small pin holes in the first coat of Rust Bullet. The second or third coat seals these tiny pin holes, forming an air tight armor tuff seal that protects the surface. If the pin holes are not sealed, air and moisture may penetrate Rust Bullet, allowing rust and corrosion to form. Rust Bullet is a simple to apply, low maintenance, super tough, high performance rust inhibitive coating. The first coat of Rust Bullet penetrates and dehydrates the rust down to the original metal surface. The second coat of Rust Bullet is necessary and critical to fill any pin holes in the first coat and ultimately forms an armor like shield on the surface. A two to three coat application typically achieves a dft (dry film thickness) of the required 6 mils for general applications. Additional coats may be necessary to achieve the appropriate dft for your project.
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14. How can I tell when to apply the next coat of Rust Bullet?

When applying additional coats of Rust Bullet or BlackShell the previous coat should not be wet or tacky; if you are unable to transfer the coating to a gloved finger, the surface is ready for an additional coat.

Approximate drying time between coats is two (2) to four (4) hours for Rust Bullet Coatings, depending on humidity levels. When excessive wet film is applied, additional cure time will be necessary. Rust Bullet Coatings are moisture sensitive; in high humid conditions of 80%+, Rust Bullet will cure much faster than it will in lower humidity. When applying additional coats from one day to the next, especially in the morning, make sure there is no dew or condensation on the previous coat. The surface to be coated must be completely dry.

Rust Bullet Rapid Fire Accelerator can be added to the Rust Bullet coating formulas to decrease the normal recoat time of 2 to 4 hrs. to approximately 30 to 40 minutes per coat. Rapid Fire makes it possible to applymultiple coats of Rust Bullet in a single day and reduces project completion time by as much as 80%. A Rust Bullet coating accelerated with Rapid Fire can be applied with either an HVLP Spray System or an Airless Spray System. For maximum rust prevention, ensure that corners, edges, and heavily pitted areas are adequately covered. Apply an adequate number of coats sufficient to achieve the dry film thickness appropriate for the project.
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15. What do I do if I waited too long to apply my next coat of Rust Bullet?

If an additional coat of Rust Bullet is needed and more than 72 hours have passed, the coated surface should be etched with Rust Bullet Metal Blast or scuffed up with 100 grit sandpaper to reopen Rust Bullet’s pores. This will allow proper adhesion of an additional coat. This 72 hour period is decreased in areas with higher humidity levels.
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16. When can I apply a Topcoat?

Rust Bullet’s phenomenal adhesive properties will accept most topcoat paints. Approximately 4 - 48 hours after the application of the final coat of Rust Bullet, the surface may be top coated. When a gloved finger touching the surface shows no transfer of paint from surface to glove. It is most advisable to allow 24hours between the final coat of Rust Bullet prior to the application of a topcoat to ensure the coating has fully expelled all solvents. This will prevent solvent popping. If more than 48 hours have passed since the final coat of Rust Bullet was applied, the surface should be etched with Rust Bullet Metal Blast or scuffedup with 100 grit sandpaper to reopen Rust Bullet’s pores to ensure proper adhesion of a topcoat. This 48 hour period is decreased in areas with high humidity levels (above 70%).

If a spray application of Rust Bullet has been accelerated by adding Rust Bullet Rapid Fire Accelerator, a topcoat may be applied one hour after the final coat of the accelerated Rust Bullet coating has been applied. Using the same method to assure no transfer when touched with a gloved finger prior to application of a second or subsequent coat application.

Rust Bullet and Rust Bullet Automotive are metallic gray in color; it is only necessary to apply a topcoat if you desire a different color other than metallic gray. Rust Bullet BlackShell, WhiteShell, ColorShells and Clear Shot are formulated specifically as topcoats for both Rust Bullet Standard and Rust Bullet Automotive formulas if a smooth gloss colored or clear finish is desired. Rust Bullet Topcoats are scratch and chip resistant, UV resistant, as well as, resistant to Acid Splash and Chemical Solvents. Rust Bullet Topcoats can be applied over painted or unpainted surfaces are UV resistant and can be used as a high quality stand alone protective coating that will protect your iron and steel. For the ultimate protection that will add additional years to the life of your project, simply apply Rust Bullet topcoats over Rust Bullet Standard or Automotive formulas.
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17. Why do I have bleed through?

You should not have rust coming to the surface unless Rust Bullet was improperly applied. Wipe down the coated surface with Rust Bullet Solvent and inspect the surface to rule out the possibility that the rust stains are caused by rusty water or fluid that has dripped onto the surface coated with Rust Bullet from another area that was not coated. If another application of Rust Bullet is necessary due to an inadequate initial application, etch the existing coating with Rust Bullet Metal Blast or scuff up the surface with 100 to150 grit sandpaper and apply an additional two coats of Rust Bullet or Rust Bullet Automotive. Remember,surfaces to be coated must be completely dry.
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18. What causes bubbling in the finish of a project coated with Rust Bullet?

Some of the most common reasons for bubbling are:

Applying Rust Bullet too thick. As Rust Bullet cures, small gas bubbles can get trapped in overly thick areas of the coating, creating bubbles in the finish, called Solvent Popping. When using a brush or roller, RustBullet should be applied evenly without buildup in a crosshatch method (an up and down, side to side continuous motion).

Prematurely applying a subsequent coat over a partially wet previous coat will trap the escaping gas during the curing process causing bubbles in the finished coating.

Shaking the can creates air bubbles in the product. Prior to application, Rust Bullet must be stirred thoroughly until completely uniform and homogeneous (approximately 3 minutes). Shaking the container may cause the formation of bubbles in the finish of the coating.

Using a Mechanical tool to stir or mix the coating will cause a vortex, drawing air into the product. Avoid whipping air into product as the same results will occur as noted above.
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19. How do I remove Rust Bullet from skin?

Take precautions to avoid contact of Rust Bullet Products with eyes, skin, clothing, or other objects not intended to coat. Wear the most appropriate protective clothing, gloves, and eye protection during set up, application, and clean up. If Rust Bullet coatings comes in contact with skin, immediately wash with soap and water for at least 5 minutes. Rust Bullet that has dried on the skin will wear off in approximately seven to ten days. Refer to the Rust Bullet MSDS - Section 4 First Aid Measures for additional information.
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20. What are the proper equipment clean-up procedures?

The Rust Bullet Application Guidelines contain complete detailed clean-up information. Application equipment must be cleaned immediately after use to avoid damage. Spills must be cleaned up immediately with Rust Bullet Solvent or the product will harden and become next to impossible to remove. Avoid getting on body, clothes, or any surface not intended to be coated. Rust Bullet Coatings are permanent; after curing, Rust Bullet can only be removed with rigorous abrasive action. Clean up fresh,uncured Rust Bullet immediately by using Rust Bullet Solvent, following the directions on the label. Washing with soap and water may work, if done immediately.

Use Rust Bullet Solvent for Cleanup. Do not make assumptions about other cleanup solvents without consulting Rust Bullet Customer Support. Even a very small contamination of Rust Bullet with alcohol or other hydroxyl-containing solvents can destroy the moisture-cure reaction partly or entirely without any indication or gelling.

Spills must be cleaned up with Rust Bullet Solvent immediately or the product will harden and become next to impossible to remove. Avoid getting on body, clothes, or any surface not intended to be coated. Rust Bullet Coatings are permanent; after curing, Rust Bullet can only be removed with rigorous abrasive action. Clean up fresh, uncured Rust Bullet immediately by using Rust Bullet Solvent, following the directions on the container. Washing with soap and water may work, if done immediately.

Application equipment must be cleaned with Rust Bullet Solvent immediately after use to avoid damage. Thoroughly flush equipment clean with Rust Bullet Solvent. Do not leave residue as it will harden and become insoluble in solvent. Clean equipment as you would with any typical two component catalyzed coating. Always clean brush or roller thoroughly. Dunking dirty equipment in Rust Bullet Solvent will not prevent the coating from curing overnight.

NOTE: If Rust Bullet Solvent is unavailable, xylene, toluene or acetone may be substituted.
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21. Can Rust Bullet be applied over fiberglass?

There are several issues to consider when painting over fiberglass, especially one that has an existing failing paint. One issue being application of a new coating system over an older, failing coating and one being application on a very delicate and porous surface. You should remove as much of the older coating as possible to alleviate its continued failure to influence the success of the new coatings. The fiberglass would need to be washed, allowed to dry and then lightly scraped to remove surface paint, wax or other contaminants. A non-chemical method of removal is to lightly scrape as much paint off as possible. If too much pressure is applied, the fiberglass may be damaged. Using a heavy-duty sponge and warm water, coat the scrubbing surface of the sponge with baking soda. Scrub the fiberglass with the baking soda to remove any paint left behind after the scraping. The baking soda will be a bit more labour intensive but will avoid damage that comes with chemical strippers or paint thinner when used on fiberglass. Thin, multiple coats of urethane is the most commonly recommended coating for application on the fiberglass, so Rust Bullet is very suitable for the job. A recommended 12 mil dry film thickness of Rust Bullet Standard Formula should be achieved prior to the application of the desired topcoat. As the fiberglass will tend to be porous and the applied coats thin, you will need more coats of the Rust Bullet than usual to achieve the appropriate film thickness on this project. Topcoat within 24 hours of the final coat of Rust Bullet Standard Rust Inhibitive Coating for optimum adhesion. If a color other than metallic gray is desired, a topcoat may be applied between 24 and 48 hours after the final coat of Rust Bullet. If more than 48 hours has passed, you may need to lightly scuff the Rust Bullet surface prior to the topcoat application.
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22. What is the proper storage & handling of Rust Bullet Products?

Care should be taken to ensure that previously opened containers or left-over partial containers are kept sealed during storage. Rust Bullet coatings are moisture sensitive; limit the time the container is opened. During application, pour out the portion you will use in approximately one hour and reseal the lid as soon as possible. Immediately wipe clean any Rust Bullet from the rim of the container and reseal. This should be done every time you use Rust Bullet and in between coats. Never pour back into the original container any Rust Bullet coating that has been exposed to the outside air for any length of time because it will destroy the remaining product. The shelf life of Rust Bullet coatings is at least two years for unopened containers and approximately one to two months for containers that have been opened. Product storage temperature range is 33° to 120. Rust Bullet is a specialized moisture sensitive product; containers that have been opened should be used within in a few months for proper coating performance. Rust Bullet Coatings improperly stored or stored beyond the recommended shelf life, opened or unopened are not eligible for the product return policy as published by Rust Bullet, LLC. Rust Bullet has introduced a new product to the Rust Bullet Family, Bloxygen. The inert Argon gas can be floated over the top of the unused portion of the Rust Bullet Coatings just prior to properly resealing the lid. This will displacing the oxygen and provide a much longer storage life for unused portions of previously opened containers. Bloxygen will preserve a Rust Bullet Coating up to 6 months.
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