Hal,

I have the answers to your questions.........Yes, regular basecoats are not fuel proof. (Heck, they can't even stand up to most wax and grease removers) The solution is EASY!!!! Go to the paint store and ask for PPG's line of basecoats that require a REACTIVE REDUCER. Reactive reducers actually have a small amount of "hardener" (activator) blended into the reducer. This will give you the fuel proofing you require and the necessary base to apply the clear. Don't clean your gun or anything else with reactive reducer...It will foul your gun!!!

True "laquers" are really not ideal to use as suitable basecoats. Laquers have a tendency to draw in and absorb the chemicals in the clear coat that provide shine. This is called "Dulling Back". Use the recommended basecoat for your clearcoat system. I hope this helps....

Kevin