There seems to be such a wide variety of opinions (some which completely contradict each other) on how to go about fuel proofing a field box.

I am thinking of running to Lowes tonight and getting what I need, but I am not exactly sure what that is. I am repainting a field box that I recently acquired. I have since sanded it and smoothed out the rough areas and its ready to paint. I have some Latex (water based) paint in the shop, and I'd like to use this, but to my knowledge, it is not fuel proof. I am not familiar with ployurethane enough to make any informed decision on its use. I was hoping to get some advice on how to accomplish this fuel proofing task.

Should I prime it first?
Can I use the latex?
Should I use something else?


Thanks.

Prime it first but be sure the primer is compatible with the paint you intend to use. I know that Rustoleum white is fuel proof to a degree but I'm not sure of their other colors. Problem with Rustoleum is a 24 hour drying time. Other than that you can use regular fuel proof model paints such as Lusterkote, etc. Be careful there as they are laquers and will eat through ordinary primers. Use the primer that goes with the paint or a good laquer primer.

CLear polyurothane then paint it Then polyurthane over it

coverite 21st century spray paint. it's a spray polyurethane that comes in colors for about $2 to $6 a can.thet also make the right primer to use too.

I painted mine with plain old oil base paint. Why do you need fuel proof paint on your field box? Mine looks fine after many trips to the field. I guess I don't spilll enough fuel to make it matter. I say just paint the thing!

I've made 2 Goldberg feild boxes over the years and used yellow Rustoleum. No problems what-so-ever even after accidently filling the top tool tray with fuel once.

I've had good luck with most colors of Rustolium, just have to leave it cure for a few days before using it, at least a week, longer if possible. I've also had good luck with water based polycrylics.

Paint?

I`ve seen some really neat plastic ones in hobby shops here. Fuel proof, built in colour; they look good. If they`re available in the US, your problem is solved.

Yup just go to Lowe's and pick your favorite colour spray bomb. And have at it. Being as it appears the box was finished before I would buy a can of primer and primer it first. Mine was painted with Rusolium I believe. Still fine today.

Mark Shuman

I agree with the rustoleum, but I buy the epoxy appliance paint. Never had any problems with it and it's almost the same as the more expensive airplane specific paints. One large can will cover a field box with no problem.