Dupli-color filler primer is a high-build formula designed to fill in minor imperfections and provide an ultra-smooth surface for topcoat paint. With proper preparation and technique, it can help you achieve professional-quality results on your paint projects. In this guide, we’ll walk through the complete process of using Dupli-color filler primer, from choosing the right product to proper application and sanding.
Choosing the Right Dupli-color Filler Primer
Dupli-color offers several types of filler primers for different needs:
All-in-1 Primer/Sealer/Undercoater
This primer acts as a sealer, undercoat, and high-build primer all in one. It features excellent filling and sanding properties and has enhanced adhesion. It’s a good general-use primer suitable for metal, fiberglass, wood, masonry, and more.
High-Build Primer Surfacer
As the name suggests, this offers extra thick coverage to fill scratches, pits, and imperfections. It can be layered on and is very easy to sand. Great for vehicles that need heavy filling.
Spot Putty Primer
This primer comes ready-mixed with filler putty to fill dents and deep scratches. It dries quickly and sands easily. Ideal as a spot repair primer.
Primer Sealers
These provide light filling and maximum paint adhesion. Choose a gray primer sealer for light colors or a red oxide for dark colors.
Primer Surfacers
Primer surfacers offer filling capabilities between standard primers and high-build primers. They provide excellent topcoat holdout.
Surface Prep for Filler Primer
Proper surface prep is crucial for successful results with filler primer. Here are the key steps:
Clean the Surface
Remove all dirt, grease, oil, and other contaminants with soap and water first. Then use a silicone remover to eliminate any traces of wax, polish, silicon, or other non-paint products.
Sand Existing Paintwork
Sand and feather edge existing paint, clearing away any loose, cracked, or flaked clearcoat or paint. This helps the primer bond.
Treat Rust
If there’s any rust present, use a rust converter to transform the rust into an inert, paintable surface.
Fill Small Holes
Fill any pinholes or tiny imperfections with body filler/putty before priming. Allow time to cure completely.
Wash Again
Give the sanded surface another wash to remove all sanding debris before primer.
How to Apply Dupli-color Filler Primer
Here are step-by-step instructions for properly applying Dupli-color filler primer:
Prep the Primer Can
Remove the cap and shake the can vigorously for at least one minute. This thoroughly mixes the filler ingredients.
Set Up a Spray Area
Work in a well-ventilated area, away from wind, dust, and direct sunlight. Hang plastic sheeting to prevent overspray on surrounding surfaces.
Use a Primer Gun
Pour the primer into a primer gun with an appropriate nozzle size (1.3-1.7 mm recommended). Maintain about 10 psi fluid pressure.
Apply Light Coats
Hold the gun 8-10 inches from the surface and spray even, light coats over the area, allowing 5-10 minutes flash time between coats. Avoid heavy, wet coats that can lead to runs.
Fill Imperfections
Target problem areas with added coats, allowing the high-build formula to fill scratches, dents, and other flaws flush with the surface.
Check Coverage
When the primer coat looks uniformly flat and even, you’ve achieved full coverage. Typically 4-6 coats does the job.
Sanding and Topcoating
Once the filler primer has dried overnight, sand it smooth and topcoat. Here’s how:
Dry Sand with 400-Grit
Use 400-grit sandpaper to knock down any minor texture or unevenness. Dry sanding prevents clogging.
Finish Sand with 600-Grit
Step up to 600-800 grit sandpaper and wet sand to achieve an ultra-smooth finish. Frequently rinse the paper.
Clean and Dry
Wipe the surface with a tack rag to remove all sanding residue before topcoating. Allow to fully dry.
Apply Topcoat
You can now apply your choice of high-quality acrylic enamel, urethane, or lacquer automotive paint according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Tips for Success with Filler Primer
Following these tips will help you get great results from Dupli-color filler primer:
– Only apply when temperatures are between 50-90°F.
– Keep the spray can warm near your body for improved flow and spraying.
– Use steady back-and-forth spray motions, avoiding heavy build-up.
– When sanding, use a sanding block to keep the surface flat.
– Always wear an appropriate respirator mask/filters when spraying.
– Allow proper drying times between coats and before sanding or topcoating.
Common Questions
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about using Dupli-color filler primer:
How long does it take to dry?
In ideal 70°F temperatures, filler primer will be dry to the touch in 30-60 minutes and ready to sand in 4-6 hours. Allow it to dry overnight before topcoating.
How much primer do I need?
One 12 oz. spray can provides coverage of up to 16 sq. ft. with sufficient build. Have extra cans ready for larger jobs or heavy filling needs.
Can I apply it over existing paint?
Yes, you can apply filler primer directly over old, sanded paint finishes. It adheres very well.
What’s the best way to spray it?
Using a primer gun allows you to adjust the fan pattern and fluid output. Maintain low air pressure and apply light coats.
Should I use a sealer before priming?
Sealing bare metal, wood, or plastic prior to primer can improve adhesion. But filler primers bond very well even without a sealer.
Conclusion
Dupli-color’s filler primers allow you to achieve a flawless, smooth foundation for paint projects. With the right prep work, spray application, and sanding techniques, these high-build primers fill imperfections for a perfect finish. Just remember to shake the can vigorously, spray light even coats, and properly sand before applying your topcoat paint. Follow this guide and you’ll get professional-grade results out of filler primer.
| Dupli-Color Filler Primer Types | Key Features | Best Uses |
|---|---|---|
| All-in-1 Primer/Sealer/Undercoater | – Seals, undercoats, and fills – Enhanced adhesion – Sands easily |
General use on multiple surfaces |
| High-Build Primer Surfacer | – Extra thick build – Fills heavy imperfections |
Heavily damaged vehicles |
| Spot Putty Primer | – Premixed with putty – Quick drying – Easy sanding |
Spot repairs and dent filling |
| Primer Sealers | – Light filling – Maximum adhesion |
Sealing before painting |
| Primer Surfacers | – Good filling properties – Excellent holdout |
General priming and filling |
| Surface Prep Steps | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Clean | Remove contaminants |
| Sand paint | Improve adhesion |
| Treat rust | Convert to paintable surface |
| Fill small holes | Create smooth surface |
| Wash again | Remove sanding debris |
| Application Tips | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Shake can vigorously | Mix filler |
| Light, even coats | Prevent runs |
| Keep can warm | Improve spraying |
| Back-and-forth motions | Control coverage |
| Sand with block | Keep flat surface |