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Permalink Reply by Chris C. on January 28, 2009 at 3:24am

Here is what I found...
http://www.msafire.com/cairns_repainting.html

MSA/Cairns repainted helmets guide

Leather Helmet Painting Instructions

The following procedures are suggested for those wishing to repaint a structurally sound N6A Houston or a N5A New Yorker leather helmet. If there are any questions concerning the serviceability of the helmet, please contact MSA Fire Service Customer Service at 1-877-MSA-FIRE or info@MSAFire.com.



STEP 1: Before proceeding, inspect the helmet for damage. If there is any sign of burned or broken stitching, soft or cut leather, cracked leather, etc., the helmet should be repaired before proceeding.

STEP 2: Remove front piece.

STEP 3: Clean off the helmet with soap and water to remove as much surface dirt as possible. Use the minimum amount of water possible.

STEP 4: Roughen the entire surface of the helmet with fine sandpaper, taking care to avoid excess sanding of the stitching.

STEP 5: Apply one coat of the recommended primer. Allow to dry completely.

STEP 6: With all surfaces of the helmet thoroughly dry and clean, apply the first coat of paint.

STEP 7: Allow the helmet to dry thoroughly and apply the second coat of paint.

STEP 8: After the second coat of paint is completely dry, put the front piece back on the helmet.

Recommended Paint/Primer and Colors
Sherwin Williams – Kem Lustral Enamel*

Primer
Gray E61 A 45
White E61 W 12
Red E61 R 26

Paint
Gloss Black F65 B 1
Bright Blue F65 L 10
Gloss White F65 W 1
Lemon Yellow F65 Y 44
Vermilion (Red) F65 R 1



*Cairns recommends the use of Sherwin Williams Super Acrylic Spray Enamel. Be sure to ask the Sherwin Williams representative what type of primer to use.


Due to the lack of control over conditions and methods used, MSA/CairnsHELMETS cannot guarantee the result of repainting helmets when performed in the field.

Permalink Reply by Bob Lloyd on February 1, 2009 at 4:27pm

Jason I guess I will add my two cents here. Look for a product called "Orange Stripper" it is a non toxic paint remover and will very slowly remove the old layers of paint without damaging the leather. Then touch up the base of the helmet with varnish as needed, apply a primer (grey) and paint it the color you want. I have done this on several Leathers that I have with good results.

Permalink Reply by rfdjumper on February 11, 2009 at 3:04pm

I agree. I refinish helmets on the side for guys in my local. I use the Orange Stripper also. It does a pretty good job, make sure you use denatured alcohol to get the residue off. I can always hit any stubborn spots with the torch if I have to.

As far as the factory paint. It Sucks and they only sell it in gallons. The primer I use is from Sears hardware. It's Krylon Primer/ Sealer KDQ5295. It handles Enamel paints on top very well. The one down side of a grey primer is the top coat will get banged up over time and the grey will peek out. You can tint the primer with the enamel to cut back on that. I also use ONE SHOT colors, They hold up well. You can get them cheaper than the fire store if there is a graphics wholesaler around or check the internet.

Permalink Reply by Jason Fullmer on February 12, 2009 at 2:33pm

rfdjumper,
How much do you charge to refreb a helmet? Mine would need to be stripped and repainted. I would like to go flat black or matte black.

Thanks
cafirefighter

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