hvlp advice please

[Woodmonkey]

I've got a Fuji minimite 3 which I bought second hand a while ago but have only just started trying to use it. I can't seen to get the paint to come out in a nice fine mist, it kind of spatters out and runs. I'm trying to spray primer onto MDF, it's va water based primer which I've thinned about 10%. I've got a viscosity cup which came with it but can't find any info about how long it should take the paint to go through it. Any advice welcome

 

[Mike.S]

Which gun are you using with that turbine (which I have) and what size needle?

 

[Woodmonkey]

Number five nozzle/ needle and this gun

 

[Mike.S]

That looks like the Fuji spray gun - on mine it's embossed into the side of the handle which I can't quite read from your pic. Assuming it is - see here and here then it's possible that you have a larger needle size than ideal.

Mine has the standard 1.4mm needle (it's gold in colour and has 4H embossed on the cap) and has sprayed water based paints without problems (albeit mainly Morrells). I think your cap size 5 equates to the 1.8mm needle/cap which is designed for solvent based paints. See here.

If you can confirm/clarify the above I'll see if I can dig out my manual about viscosity timings.

 

[Woodmonkey]

Yep its the Fuji gun as supplied with the turbine.
Viscosity timings would be great if you can find them thanks.

 

[Mike.S]

Sounds like the needle on the 4H isn't seating fully - the needle packing may be at fault. Rather than me witter on have a look through the manuals (depending which version you have) at the fuji site or this one. The first one also has the same viscosity measurements as my 2012 manual.

Eddit to add: here's a useful FAQ and links to manuals etc.

 

[kfenelon]

It sounds like the needle could be damaged at the tip