Alclad question..

[Radleigh]

I've seen recently some comments about Alclad being 'sticky' for days after it's been applied, tape lifting the paint off, rubbing off when handling... Why is this? I've used it once and it's been OK... should this be something to be wary of?

Many thanks..

[Mike]

First one is probably down to a bad batch, or extreme old age (the paint, not you!). There was a batch of Chrome that was very fragile some years back, but I think it should have long worked its way out of the system unless you've been sold a pup, or had it years? Metallics by their nature are less sturdy than other paints (yes, even lacquers), and that's why you should paint them after the majority of handling is over, or seal them in with a coat of Klear after they've properly cured. I've used the latter method before, and it doesn't take much, if any of the shine away.