The 5 most frequently asked questions about painting agricultural machinery

When machines and vehicles are used in all weathers, all year round, their paintwork can soon fade or even corrode. Repainting tractors and other farming equipment can offer more protection, as well as halting corrosion and projecting a professional image. In this article, we answer the five most frequently asked questions we receive about painting agricultural vehicles and machinery.

Question 1: Can I apply Kramp products over an existing surface?
Kramp paint can be applied over existing paint layers. When you are spray-painting, it is important to use the correct thinner or hardener. The first step, though, is to use a good-quality primer, whether that’s for painting onto bare metal or covering existing paint layers. The primer ensures good adhesion for the paint you will apply later. If you find that any of the metal surfaces are showing signs of rust, treat the area with a good rust binder before you apply the primer.

Question 2: Is it possible to use Kramp products in combination with diluents from another manufacturer?
No, we do not recommend this. Our thinners are specifically tested for use with our paint product range. If you use diluents (diluting agents) from another manufacturer, we cannot give a guarantee for how well your paint finish will withstand daily exposure to weather, soil and aggregates. Mixing products which have not been tested together could have a negative influence on the drying time and surface of the paint, or you may even find there is absolute incompatibility between thinner and paint; any of these options becomes a false economy which will see your machinery out of action for longer.

Question 3: Even after a long drying time, the paint looks soft. What could the reason be?
First, check the thickness of the layer of paint you have applied. This effect is often caused by paint that has been applied too thickly. Kramp synthetic resin slag has an oxidative hardening binder, which means that it reacts with the oxygen in the air to cure. If the layer thickness is too high, the paint on the surface dries quickly, while the layers under the surface fail to dry properly. To speed up the drying process, use the 950008KR Kramp Hardener as a thinner instead of a normal thinner. Another option is to heat the paint - to a maximum of 60°C.

Question 4: What is the best way to use Kramp’s synthetic resin slag?
When spraying, it is essential that you obtain the correct thickness of paint to achieve the desired quality. This is easiest and most accurate when you use a viscometer. Paint that is too thick may result in a dimpled surface; what’s known as the orange peel effect. Paint that is too thin, on the other hand, can result in runs in the paintwork. Kramp synthetic resin paint is mainly used in spray guns. Use an RP or HVLP spray gun with a nozzle of 1.3-1.5 mm and a spray pressure of 2.0-2.5 bar within 1-2 layers. For small surfaces it is also possible to work with a roller or brush.

Question 5: Where can I find information on the safe use and removal of Kramp paints?
You will find all the relevant information you could need about the entire Kramp paint range and all paint-related products on the safety data sheets and in the product information on the webshop and, of course, accompanying the product itself when you purchase it. This information is updated whenever there is any change to any product.

If you are unsure about finding the right paint for your vehicle or machine, or have further questions about mixing, storing or applying paint, please contact our product specialists directly or email knowledgecenter@kramp.com.