Re: Conversion Varnish
Here's one from Mohawk...
http://www.mohawk-finishing.com/cata...asp?ictnbr=577
You can get the MSDS and PDS by clicking on the links on the right. I've been looking into whether and how to repair this stuff. I have an Ovation guitar in for finish repair and I've discovered that it's not at all easy to repair. With nitro lacquer, just add some butyl cellosolve and spray. With varnishes it's even easier. But with this catalyzed poly you really can't apply anything and be sure it will bond. Once this stuff is on, it's a rock. I've since found that Bourgeois and PRS, and of course Taylor, among others, are using these finishes. I'm not sure about small mfgs like Huss and Dalton. It's only a production shortcut, as these finishes build faster and can be buffed 24 hours after application. But they must also be re-coated within 4 hours or you won't get a chemical bond. I know that Collings still uses nitro lacquer, I think Rockbridge does as well.
I would avoid these finishes due to the fact that they are very difficult to repair without witness lines and debonding of new finish. I think I'd varnish everything with oil varnish or just use French polish if time was no issue at all. But guitar people expect lacquer, mandos and fiddle expect (or want) varnish.
Jack C.
non illegitimati carborundum
Bookmarks