Can I substitute paint thinner for Interlux 333?

[callsign222]

Well?

Time is mega-tight on my end this week, and I have a can of Pre-Kote but no 333. I do have a bunch of dings that need some filling, so thicker would be better, but I think it could become a big bloggy mess without a little bit of thinner, at least. Will normal thinner be really any different than 333?

Not going for the museum finish, but want to do a durable job.

Thoughts? Thank you!

[Dale Genther]

I know there are those here who will say "Read the can and always use what the paint manufactureres say to use" but I've thinned it with mineral spirits with no ill effects.

[darroch]

My last attempt tells me air temperature is far more important [at least I hope that's what it was].

[Dusty Yevsky]

I've never tried this particular combo but have used commonly available thinners for plenty of pricey marine coatings. Call up the Interlux tech support, tell them that you can't get the 333 and ask them what they recommend. I'll bet they say any high quality thinner.

[Torna]

Where are you in NH? I'm just across the border in VT and have some 333.
-leif

[waynec]

Will normal thinner be really any different than 333?

[ Description from the interlux 333 data sheet ]


Brushing Liquid 333 is a slow drying solvent to ease brushing and facilitate the flow of specified paint coatings. Extends drying in hot weather. Also recommended in various topside systems for removing sanding residue from Fiberglass and Wood surfaces.
* For use with specified topside paints
http://www.yachtpaint.com/usa (http://www.yachtpaint.com/usa)

[ Primary ingredients from the interlux 333 MSDS ]


Kerosene 50 − 75% by Weight
Solvent naphtha (petroleum),medium aliphatic 50 − 75% by Weight

What's a trade secret is the ratio of Kerosene to Naphtha.

Will Mineral Spirits do the same thing, others may know or you may have to do a little testing of your own.

If 333 were MEK or Acetone, I'd say they aren't the same as Mineral Spirits, but Kerosene and Naphtha, are closer chemically.

I'd venture the Kerosene is the slowing agent and the Naphtha ratio controls just how slow. Mineral Spirits may warrant some experimentation.
.

[JimConlin]

Yes!

[paul oman]

Naphtha and Kerosene..... I assume a quart of Interlux 333 sells for $3 a quart??

[Bob Adams]

For general use, no problem, for a fine finish coat, I'd get the right stuff.

[David G]

Agreed. I've used mineral spirits plenty - in lieu of 333. It works ok, but not perfect. Don't leave your brush soaking in it... it gums up and makes a mess.

[callsign222]

The shop ended up having it, and I bought it. 12 bucks a can though.

I would've used thinner if I didn't find it. Thanks!