Knowing what practical sorts are likely to visit this group, I'd like recommendations for paint for my new project, a Holbrook Model C lathe - originally it was a shade of Institutional Green, which I may choose not to repeat on grounds of taste (or lack thereof)...
At present my plan is to strip the original paint back to bare metal (apparently Mr Muscle oven cleaner is a good choice for this, with less health risks than Nitromors etc.) and clean with thinners, apply a coat of bare-metal primer, fill any obvious pits (Isopon or similar) and sand, before applying further primer and the top (colour) coats with further sanding in between.
I've heard scary stories about 2-pack (e.g. epoxy and other) paints and hazardous chemicals, although I'd be brushing rather than spraying if I were to go for such, on the assuption that it's the vapourisation of the catalysts etc. that leads to problems - Ideally I'd avoid them if there's something else that's suitable.
I've seen a few favourable comments on "Combi Color" enamels and associated primers, some quite negative ones on Smoothrite etc. and not many on Tekaloid (most of the sites that discuss machine painting seem to be transpondian, with different brand names!), has anyone any opinions on which would be most suitable? The poor thing's likely to have spanners and chuck-keys etc. dropped on it from time to time, coolant (probably neat cutting oil rather than soluble) and smoking swarf all over it, so durability's a major factor (I'd quite like it to look good too, though!)
Any rebuilders or restorers of old iron have any suggestions?
Thanks, Dave H.