tape and other supplies

[Scones]

I know there are some pretty trick high heat tapes out there. I was wondering if there was a specific brand everyone used, or liked. Also, I was wondering what brand of prepping solvents people liked to use.

[Harleydad]

I think the high temp tapes are basically all the same (different colors,different temps). Here are a few suppliers of masking supplies and hooks.
www.shercon.com
www.mightyhook.com
www.springbokinc.com
As far as cleaning solvents most all pre-paint cleaners will work. I use Acetone. I believe, as long as it's not petroleum based and leaves a residue you should be o.k.

[JTW37]

I painted cars for many years. I used a metal/Paint prep before I would spray paint. It removes any finger prints or any other surface contaminants that may have landed on the surface. I have also started using it for powder coating. You can get it at any Auto Paint store and some car parts stores. Some of it you just put it on and your done, some others you have to follow up with another rag to dry. Don't get that one. I've read here and I've done it myself, use carb cleaner in the spray can or brake cleaner. No petroleum.

[Scones]

Until I get some high heat tape in, would regular painters tape hold up for a couple small jobs? What do you guys think of varsol?

[Harleydad]

I think the painters tape might work in a pinch. After everything is masked and coated put the part in the oven. After about a minute or two pull it back out and remove the masking.

[bzer1]

Not all tapes are created equal. Some are thicker than others, and some are more flexible as well. I don't particularly like the more rigid tape, which is what most outlets sell. I prefer to use something more flexible and quite a bit thinner than the conventional 3M green tape. It is unfortunately more expensive than the green tape, but better none the less. There are also a variety of silicone tapes that are quite expensive, but they are reusable, so if you do alot of a particular type of part that will need the same areas taped off in the same shapes this is the way to go. I would not recommend going the painters tape route, as it will most likely leave a residue on the part that will be very difficult to remove after it's been heated.

[Scones]

Thanks. Where can I pick up some heat tape, an automotive store like Canadian Tire?