Model Master Metalizer problem

I use both the Model Master Metalizers and the Alcad laquers but I prefer Alcad's chrome as it looks better. Either way I seal them with Floquil's glaze. Works well for me.

Oz

although ive never tried metalizer paints,i have had good experence with floquills old silver as well as bright sliver. about 15 yr ago roscoe creed had an article in FSM outlining these paints. i did a f-86 as a test bed and was very pleased with the coverage and handling using these colors. good luck and hope this helps

I don't have a problem with Metal Master paints. I can't buy them here in Ontario. The government has banned solvent-based paints. I can buy Alcad II, but not M.M.

I also have to agree with Dick on the price factor...a small 3 ounce bottle costs me over $12.00 (Cdn), taxes in.

I also like the finish with Testors metalizer, but they are, as you have found out, very delicate and will not tolerate handling and masking is nearly out of the question. I have also attempted to use their sealer and was less than satisified with the results; ended up having to strip off all the paint and start over. Over a year ago a friend gave me a couple bottles of Alclad II and while it has its drawbacks it is durable and can be masked without any problems. One of the problems I have with Alclad II is that a primer coat must be first applied, then a coat of gloss, usually black, before finally putting down the Alclad. Like I said, it can be masked. On a F-4J I recently completed I left the Alclad portions masked for close to a month with Scotch's semi transparent tape I had removed some of the tack from. No Alclad came up when I removed the masking nor was it changed in any way from when I originally sprayed it. The other problem is that it is not cheap: the local hobby store here in Florida charges $7.50 a bottle.
Dick McC

Metalizer is the old Liqua-Plate formula from the 70s and 80s. It looks good unsealed, but will not tolerate handling. SNJ is far less delicate, though it doesn't have the range of colors of Metalizer. Alclad II seems to be still tougher. Some modelers are able to just coat areas which are likely to be handled with Future, without much compromise to the overall finish.

I have had luck with future. Just apply several light coats. Just mist in on each time. I have also found the buffing type metalizers hold up better with future. The non buffing metalizers turn dull even with future. The sealer designed for Modal Master metalizers are a waste of money. You would think they would come up with a better sealer to use with their metalizers.

Berny

I have some of the same stuff at home, but haven't used it yet. I've read that the MM Metalizers are very delicate and that it is common to get the same results you describe. They look good, but cannot be handled. I've also heard that the 'sealer' changes the look of the finish (just like you've described)

I've heard ALOT of talk about the Alclad II metalizers out now. I think they're a little more expensive, but the word is that they dry VERY fast and are completely tough and able to be handled after they are dry.

The other alternative is foil, which is pretty durable for handling, but very delicate to apply in large sections.

M.