A sprayout card can be a helpful tool when trying to achieve a blendable color match. This standard operating procedure (SOP) covers the steps required when creating a sprayout card. Before beginning any repair, it is important to always wear the recommended safety protection required for the job.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Apply basecoat color over the recommended undercoat gray primer-sealer or ARMC 464 multiple gray, metal, or paper spray out card (ARMCXXX) gray, determined by the color code.
- Use the same spray equipment and technique as if spraying the vehicle. Hand-holding a spray out card may cause color differences unless the same distance and technique are utilized.
- Apply and record the total amount of color coats until perceived opacity is achieved. Dry basecoat thoroughly between each coat.
- WATERBORNE: For sparkle technology containing basecoats, apply a Control Coat on one-half of the spray out card. Depending on the vehicle color, a Control Coat may or may not be necessary. Solid colors do not require a control coat. Performing a spray out card in this manner will verify color correctness.
- To properly evaluate a color, all basecoat layers should be allowed to dry thoroughly before applying two coats of clearcoat.
- Once dry, the spray out card should be evaluated in natural sunlight, preferably between 10 AM and 2 PM. Color corrective light sources are an accepted method, yet not preferred over natural sunlight. Checking color in shaded areas is as important as lighted areas.
- It is best practice for solid colors to be allowed 2 to 4 hours of dry time before a final decision of the spray out card. It is best practice for Tri-coat colors to be allowed 8 plus hours, if possible, before a final decision of a spray out card. Refer to PD-0660 TRI-COAT LET DOWN PANEL.
- Spray out cards should be evaluated in three viewing angles of Face, Flash, and Flop. The face and flop angles are the two most important angles to view!
- File the spray out card in a DOX 446 spray out card binder or other suitable filing system for future reference.