Current day alternative to DuPont ChromaClear

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  • Timothy L
    Lieutenant Commander
    • Sep 2024
    • 102

    #1

    Current day alternative to DuPont ChromaClear

    I decided I’m not satisfied with the Colormax matte coat over my acrylic colors. He Who Shall Jump All Over This Post has praised DuPont ChromaClear - but out of production and ungodly expensive. Most of Dave’s posts on the subject appear to be 10 years old or so. Thus I am looking for current recommendations of an alternative clear coat. I would very much prefer something that can go through an airbrush But not be a mother to clean And that will not be an issue over Water-based colors like Tamiya acrylics.
    Also, on any of the products that might be recommended is there a significant difference in hardness between flat and semi-gloss? Thank you.
    Last edited by Timothy L; 01-30-2026, 02:12 PM.
  • Subculture
    Admiral

    • Feb 2009
    • 2481

    #2
    You want 2K polyurethanes. They're only a b1tch to clean if you don't use the right solvents. If it kills brain cells you're generally good to go.

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    • Timothy L
      Lieutenant Commander
      • Sep 2024
      • 102

      #3
      Thank you. I am not at all familiar with two-part paints. Is there a preferable solvent base? I see that some 2K polyurethanes is water solvent (General Enduro) but it appears as if that’s not the ideal solvent. Again, thank you.
      Last edited by Timothy L; 01-30-2026, 04:56 PM.

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      • vital.spark
        Commander

        • May 2010
        • 307

        #4
        Lacquer thinner does the job with ease! As per the airbrush, I followed David's advice when I first started and went for the Pasche H, single action.

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        • Timothy L
          Lieutenant Commander
          • Sep 2024
          • 102

          #5
          What I am trying to find out is about specific products. If you use 2K polyurethane, that is similar to Dave’s old standby, which specific 2K product do you use? As far as airbrushes go, I use a Harder & Steenbeck with which I am immensely pleased. Thanks all!

          Comment

          • He Who Shall Not Be Named
            Moderator

            • Aug 2008
            • 13605

            #6
            The last shots are of the 2K stuff I'm using these days.

















            Who is John Galt?

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            • Subculture
              Admiral

              • Feb 2009
              • 2481

              #7
              I'm in the UK, so any recommendations won't help much for you in the US, as you have different brands and suppliers and even different rules from state to state. I tend to use Jawal paints and ebay vendors.

              e.g. https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/126327512...AAAOSw~ZJlyTb1

              I'd avoid the water based products, they're aimed more for big spray shops who have to keep their solvent based emissions down.

              If you only want some small amounts zero paints do some nice products and distribute in the US I believe. It is an expensive way to buy the stuff though.

              Zero Paints supply airbrushed ready, automotive model paints, colour matched to perfection.

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              • Timothy L
                Lieutenant Commander
                • Sep 2024
                • 102

                #8
                Thank you Subculture - this all gives me enough to do more homework, forge ahead, and experiment. Much appreciated!

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