how do make tips last longer?

Hello I have been using 219 and 317's Once I am done doing the job or if I have to change the colors I clean the system all the way tip and all. But my tips are still going I am using latex We put about 30-40 gallons threw the machine and then I have to put another tip in the the gun. Is this normal? I always got 2-3 extra tips on the job all the time Any hints would help me out thanks -Dean

I think 30 or 40 gallons is right.

I am getting atleast twice your rate on my tips. Maybe just lucky, but once I finish a job, I put the tips in a "ammo box" that I picked up at a surplus store with xylene. When I take the tips out, I give them a coating of WD40. I shoot a mix of latex for new asphalt / overlays / sealcoats and Chlorinated Rubber for everything else. Woodie

Simple answer... Change to alkyd. Latex is horribly abrasive. I get around 100 gallons before any deformation of pattern. Also, you might want to try to graduating to a slightly larger tip such as a 319. The larger orifice may allow more room for solids to pass without as much friction.

i have been using the same tip for two years and have no problems with it, but then i use an airsprayer instead of airless

Stripes is right about alkyd & latex but the same goes for the manufacturer of the paint. Compared to "good" paint like automotive or even house paints the "grind" of the particles in striping paint is much more coarse. Some companies much worse than others and latex worse than alkyd so tip wear can vary a lot. The coarse "grind" in the paint solids is kind-of like sand in sealer...makes the tips wear faster just from the abrasion.

We shoot all CR and have tips in our collection that are 3+ years and still work fine..

stars1 wrote on Mar 7, 2005:Go to #5

i have been using the same tip for two years and have no problems with it, but then i use an airsprayer instead of airless

Starr, you could get a good ten years out of a tip, the lower presser is easier on them.

Or more, especially now with stainless. I met a guy who ran a 1972 Ez-liner 587 until 1996ish when he finally replaced the gun, and his work was right up there with the best.

Tips, like paint, are just a cost of doing business.