Should I add a clear coat to single stage paint job? splatters on one side do i need to re-do?

Question

I painted my bike with 3 coats single stage and it doesn't look shiny. Should I add a clear coat after the paint dries? Or will it be shinier when it dries? ALSO!, Paint splatted on one the right fairing, Should I re-sand and do it over?

Answer 1

Most single stage paints can be clearcoated as long as an activator or hardner was used in the paint. If you didn't use a hardner or activator then don't clear it. It won't get shinier as it dries. It sounds like you may have "dry sprayed" it. If you don't put enough material on, then the paint won't shine. You need to put enough material on it to make it look wet. You probaly need to re-sand it and repaint it.

Answer 2

Single stage what?

If enamel, you either used the wrong mix ratios, or reducers or hardeners.

If you shot a base color, it will be dull unless cleared.

You can clearcoat over either, but there is a time frame you gotta beat. Most have to be cleared within 12 to 20 hours for adhesion. The "splatted" thing I can't say. Don't know what you put on it, or what "splatted". It is possible that it could be color sanded and buffed, but I think you may be looking at a total "do-over" anyway.

Take the "splatted" fairing to wherever you bought your supplies and let them talk you through it.