Just purchased a Badger 105 Patriot how do i make sure it stays prestine?

[Guest]

So just spend $74 (U.S +$9.00) Shipping.

What are steps to take to insure my AB stays pristine and proper cleaning or self maintenance...Kind of a broad question.

[Ian M]

Well you have replied to your own question there ten. Proper cleaning.

After each session Clean it through with a solvent for the kind of paints you have used. Then strip it down and clean it again.

Buy a set of airbrush cleaning brushes. These are micro bottle brush type things that (John sells them in the Shop). You will be amazed how much sh..... I mean gunk you can get out of a 'clean' airbrush by using a brush. To clean out the actual nozzle a soft paint brush which has long enough to go right through the nozzle. Some times it can be an idea to put all the little bits into a dish of solvent and let them soak a bit, while you clean the large parts.

Be careful not to loose any parts (important that). Once everything is clean reassemble and blow some thinners through it again to make sure all is well and there are no bits that are missing or still blocked.

Ian M

[tanktrack]

I second that

[Guest]

Me too. However, some airbrush users say that while they put thinners or cleaner fluid through their brushes every time after a session, they often don't strip down. I much dislike problems such as blockages or sputtering which are very disruptive, so I always strip down, and often use an ultrasonic cleaner. One day I will have the courage to try just cleaning with fluid.

[Guest]

You must have an Harder and Steenbeck which is easy to strip down Steve. With an Iwata it takes at least twice the time. For my Iwata I usually just use Vallejo Airbrush Cleaner after a couple of cups of water (to clear quickly the sloppy bits. Would rather strip but it is just a huge bother.

Laurie

[rickoshea52]

The obvious starting point is to read the maintenance instructions. I work as a Field Service rep for an aerospace company and you would be amazed at the amount of queries I receive that can be answered with the response, RTFM. Having said that, Ian's advice is exactly what I do after a painting session and lubricating on re-assembly.

[Guest]

Me too. However, some airbrush users say that while they put thinners or cleaner fluid through their brushes every time after a session, they often don't strip down. I much dislike problems such as blockages or sputtering which are very disruptive, so I always strip down, and often use an ultrasonic cleaner. One day I will have the courage to try just cleaning with fluid.

I purchased my father an ultra sonic cleaner. (He loads his own ammo) and it cleans the brass. Can i just put my brush in there and have it clean it? Will i need some dw40 to re lubricate it?

[Ian M]

The obvious starting point is to read the maintenance instructions. I work as a Field Service rep for an aerospace company and you would be amazed at the amount of queries I receive that can be answered with the response, RTFM. Having said that, Ian's advice is exactly what I do after a painting session and lubricating on re-assembly.

LOL! RTFM. I'll have to remember that one.

Ian M

[Ian M]

Can i just put my brush in there and have it clean it? Will i need some dw40 to re lubricate it?

Others will probably say otherwise but my reply will be a NO.

If you clean it after use, it should not be needed.

As for the WD40... some say its great. I never use it. Good old white spirit contains enough oils to keep it moving and will not do any harm. Others, (myself included use the 'good old' oil from the side of your nose. NO the outside! Just run a finger and thumb down your nose and then pull the needle through said finger and thumb.

An air brush is a tool and nothing to be afraid off. You do not have to pack it in cotton wool and pamper it like a new born. Just clean it after use and give it a stripdown once in a while and it will pay you back with YEARs of faithful service.

Ian M