cwalker3
When spraying my airbrush I had air bubbling back up through the the bowl. I know to clean the small orifice on the front end of the brush when this happens, but what if this doesn't solve the problem? I've had this problem with two other Patriot brushes to the point where I binned them and started over with a new one. I love the brush but am now wondering if this is just something common to this brush, or if I'm doing something wrong.
Any help is appreciated.
CW -
The 105 Patriot is indeed a very good, all around utility airbrush. Capable of broad coverage, as well as moderately fine area details, such as camo. The fact that your experience seems to have been troublesome, makes it appear that either the front parts are being damaged by handling/cleaning, or the same parts are not being thoroughly cleaned.
Do you still have the manual? If not you can download it from the Badger homepage. I'd also recommend that you check out "Don's Airbrush" site, you'll find specific info about the 105 there. The design of the 105 is just a simple and rugged unit, but some items do require care and cleanliness. I'm able to think of only a couple of things that may be leading to your issues.
Looking at your manual parts list, the three front parts need to be cleaned well after use, the little cone shaped bit called 41-003, forward of it is 51-071, in the very front is what I think is called the regulator, 41-033. When I'm finished painting I disassemble the front bits and soaked them in laquer thinner for a few minutes, then clean them carefully with cotton buds. If any paint residue is left on those parts, the assembly cannot be sealed well for use. Strong magnification will confirm whether any paint remains.
The little cone shaped part is easy to damage, the fine end is fairly delicate. If it gets split bubbles will appear in the cup. There is no fix for that it's a parts replacement, if there is a split it's seen by magnification. When assembling the airbrush following cleaning, tighten the front bits first, then advance the needle to set it for painting. Avoid lots of force when tightening parts, those are some fine threads and only need so much torque for securing.
Good luck with getting it sorted, and yes, Badger will stand by the customer when sorting problems. Let us know when you get it back in order.
Patrick