Tamiya TS-101 Base White Spray Paint Instruction Manual

Introduction

The Tamiya TS-101 Base White spray paint is a specialized lacquer designed to serve as an undercoat for model building. Its primary function is to provide a solid white base, particularly when applying light-colored topcoats onto dark plastic surfaces. This ensures that the final color appears true and vibrant, preventing the underlying dark tone from compromising the topcoat's intended shade.

This product comes in a 100ml spray can and is formulated to help achieve a lustrous finish for gloss color topcoats. Please read all instructions carefully before use to ensure proper application and safety.

Image 1: Tamiya TS-101 Base White 100ml Spray Can. This image shows the product packaging, a white spray can with the Tamiya Color Mini logo and product details.

Safety Information

WARNING: This product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Use in a well-ventilated area.

• Flammable: Keep away from heat, sparks, open flames, and hot surfaces. No smoking.
• Vapors: Avoid breathing vapors. Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
• Eye/Skin Contact: Avoid contact with eyes and skin. In case of contact, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical advice.
• Ingestion: Do not ingest. If swallowed, seek medical advice immediately and show this container or label.
• Children: Keep out of reach of children.
• Pressure: Pressurized container: May burst if heated. Do not pierce or burn, even after use.

Setup

1. Prepare the Work Area: Ensure you are in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors. If indoors, use a spray booth or ensure adequate air circulation. Protect surrounding surfaces from overspray.
2. Surface Preparation: The surface to be painted must be clean, dry, and free of dust, grease, and mold release agents. Lightly sand smooth plastic surfaces for better adhesion if necessary.
3. Shake the Can: Shake the spray can vigorously for at least one minute after the mixing ball begins to rattle. Continue shaking periodically during application to ensure consistent paint mixture.
4. Test Spray: Before applying to your model, perform a test spray on a scrap piece of plastic or cardboard to check the spray pattern and color consistency.

Operating Instructions

1. Application Distance: Hold the spray can approximately 20-30 cm (8-12 inches) from the surface of the object to be painted.
2. Apply Thin Coats: Apply the paint in several thin, even coats rather than one thick coat. This prevents drips and ensures a smoother finish. Move the can steadily across the surface, starting and ending the spray off the object.
3. Drying Time: Allow each coat to dry for 10-15 minutes before applying the next. This allows solvents to evaporate and prevents lifting or wrinkling.
4. Base Coat Purpose: As a base white, apply just enough coats to achieve an even, opaque white finish over the dark plastic. This typically requires minimal layers.
5. Topcoat Application: Once the base white is fully dry (allow at least 24 hours for full cure before heavy handling or topcoating), you can proceed with your desired topcoat color. The TS-101 Base White will ensure the topcoat's true color is achieved.

Image 2: Tamiya TS-101 Color Swatch. This image displays a hexagonal shape with 'TS101' indicating the specific color code for this base white paint.

Important Note:

Tamiya TS paint is not designed for use with clear Polycarbonate/LEXAN R/C body shells. The paint will flake off these materials. For Polycarbonate applications, please use Tamiya PS spray paint.

Maintenance

• Cleaning the Nozzle: After each use, invert the can and spray for a few seconds until only clear propellant comes out. This clears the nozzle and prevents clogging.
• Storage: Store the can in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F). Ensure the cap is securely placed on the can.

Troubleshooting

• Uneven Spray/Splattering:
  • Ensure the can is thoroughly shaken before and during use.
  • Check if the nozzle is clogged. Clean it by inverting the can and spraying, or by carefully removing and cleaning with a solvent if necessary (use caution).
  • Ensure the can temperature is not too cold. Warm the can gently in warm water (do not use direct heat).
• Drips or Runs:
  • You are spraying too close to the surface or applying too much paint in one coat. Maintain the recommended distance and apply thinner coats.
  • Ensure adequate drying time between coats.
• Poor Adhesion/Flaking:
  • The surface may not have been properly cleaned or prepared. Ensure it is free of grease, dust, and mold release agents.
  • Crucially, remember that Tamiya TS paints are not suitable for Polycarbonate/LEXAN R/C body shells. Use Tamiya PS paints for these materials.
• Rough or Grainy Finish:
  • You may be spraying too far from the surface, causing the paint to dry in the air before reaching the object. Reduce the spray distance slightly.
  • Environmental conditions (too dry or windy) can also cause this.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

Specific warranty information for the Tamiya TS-101 Base White spray paint is not provided in the available product data. For any product support or inquiries, please contact Tamiya USA directly through their official website or customer service channels.