Frog Juice as a clearcoat

[Bob Sauls]

I guess I am a slow learner as it has only reached my notice within the last year and a half that 1 shot lettering enamels are not what they used to be. It really yanks my chain that I now have to mix in a hardener to get a longer lasting finish with it.
I have had good results having some signs protected with automotive clears but I have no spray booth or equipment to do it in house.
I have rolled on Frog Juice over several very detailed MDO signs and I am wondering what to expect from this product long term....I am not sure I really want to know. Gulp.

[Kent Smith]

UV topcoats like frog juice or 1Shot uv clear, will extend the life by half as much as without, whatever that might have been. Two component uv clears will extend the life by two or three times, depending upon actual exposures.

[Bob Sauls]

Thanks Kent, but what about the life of the F.J. itself will it last 3-5 years exposed you think, With out cracking, yellowing, etc.?
My question has too many variables I suppose.

[Kent Smith]

2 to 3 maybe.

[Bob Sauls]

I guess I should just use the hardener and for go the F.J. then if it will not last any longer than the paint underneath?
Do you suppose it would be advantageous the go back after a year or so wash and re-coat with F.J.?

[Kent Smith]

A UV coat gives the surface more life but we have found that periodic cleaning, waxing and as a last resort, another clear coat is adventageous. In deference to the two components, I prefer the waterborne UV clear as it is totally recoatable.