I know I'm stretching the trailer maintenance issue whilst posting in this forum, but this thread can be applicable to LQ interiors. Has anyone used the hardener Tractor Supply sells for their oil based paints with polyurethane oil based finishes?

I've used many dozens of gallons of poly finishes, mostly by spraying applications. When it's cold, I commonly use Japan Drier and acetone as a thinner, and had very good results. But with these cooler temperatures, the drying rate is over twelve hours, and a couple of days to cure.

Recently I used the TS oil based Valspar "tractor" paint, on some kitchen metal cabinets I slavaged, repainted and installed in my shop. Using the TS hardener, the paint dried quickly in the very cool area. The directions said it would also work on poly products. I've never used this additive before, and so far I'm pleased with the results.

Has anyone else had any experience with this product? I will make some test panels to see about its drying abilities, but I'm also concerned if it will change any of the poly's physical attributes. Thanks

An update. My trials of trying to use Tractors Supply paint hardener in an oil based poly varnish, ended up being a failure. When used with their Valspar oil based paint it was a complete success, considerably reducing drying times.

When added to the varnish, it actually increased the drying times by almost double the original amount. I had hoped that this would be the magic elixir, the chemical that would alleviate the last negative for using the oil/poly varnishes; IE long drying times.

So if you're going to use their paint, buy the hardener. If you are varnishing your latest project, don't waste your time and money with the additive. Japan drier helps a bit, using acetone as a thinner helps the varnish to flash more quickly, if you need it to. Otherwise, when you spray, thin with the paint thinner as recommended by the manufacturer.

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Farmbabe: Thats way above my pay grade. I just like things to be pretty. Good luck!

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