Neck Finish Repair

[N4860]

I've been using West Systems epoxy for many years to repair instruments. Bonding seams, filling gaps, filling grain, even as a base coat under poly finishes. It's very strong, sands and shapes nicely, and doesn't shrink at all over time. I use their standard 105 Resin and either 205 Fast Hardener or 206 Slow Hardener.

System Three and Total Boat also make similar marine-grade epoxies. They are also good products.

Thanks! What would be the easiest method of application for epoxy as a base coat before spraying?

 

[Bruce Johnson]

Thanks! What would be the easiest method of application for epoxy as a base coat before spraying?

You can dab it on with a mixing stick or a lint-free cloth. I usually use Wool Daubers, a little ball of wool on the end of a metal stick. They are simple and convenient. It doesn't really matter what you use. Wipe on a light coat, thick enough that it can flow out a bit, but not so thick that it sags or runs. It's usually best to coat a body while held horizontally, in two steps, top and back.

After it cures, dry sand it smooth with 220 paper on a firm block, by hand, in straight linear strokes. Very light sanding pressure, barely more than the weight of the block.

 

[Beej]

I agree with Bruce - I don't go through as much epoxy, so I tend to use System Three as it's available in smaller quantities. It's not cheap, but it's permanent. My own process is to just wipe on a very thin layer by hand while wearing gloves. I get it as smooth and thin as I can and let it flow out. I will do this 3+ times to get full coverage when I'm sealing grain on a new build for example. I very gently sand it back to not sand through, but just get it smooth and even. I use a brush to brush the epoxy dust off the body and the sandpaper frequently to keep things clean.

I know resins can be cumbersome to work with, but if you are all ready with prep, you can minimize the pain. I cover surfaces in wax or parchment paper, and use lots of gloves. It's worth it to me to get that perfect factory-looking finish.

 

[bobdabilder]

There are some 20 minute epoxies available at local craft stores that work just fine. Zpoxy has an epoxy thats good for finishes. No need to spend 100 bucks on epoxy. I use west systems but you don't have to.

 

[bobdabilder]

https://www.amazon.com/Pacer-Technology-Zap-Finishing-Adhesives/dp/B0006O8ESK

 

[Beej]

I second zpoxy, that's great stuff and relatively inexpensive in Canada. The system three I use is 52.00 vs 20 for zpoxy here: [Invalid or Expired Link Removed]

West Systems smallest containers up here will be about 120 for a quart. We used to have West Marine here on the island before they pulled out of Canada entirely back in 2015-2016, and I bought West there for around 60 for the resin and hardener. Nowadays, yikes. My local supplier carries the gallon as his smallest size, but they also cater to boat building, so it makes sense for them, but it's much too rich for me.

Kids, lawn, get off it, etc.

 

[N4860]

Ok I picked up some system 3 epoxy since it was available in a smaller quantity. It's got a 3 hour cure time I believe.

How much epoxy would you recommend mixing at a time for a coat on 1 side of the body?

 

[Beej]

Oh, not much, I usually do an ounce. If I need more, I'll quickly mix it up.