PPG/OMNI Paint code for Oliver Hart-Parr 70

If you have a PPG DAR number that you are sure you want, just use the same number in the PPG OMNI line. For example, using Oliver standard green (40812):

DAR40812 = DAR Acrylic Enamel
MAE40812 = OMNI Acrylic Enamel
MTK40812 = OMNI Acrylic Urethane (single stage)
MBC40812 = OMNI Acrylic Basecoat
DBU40812 = DBU Deltron Basecoat

These are all the same color. The basecoats of course require a clear coat on top. The DBU would be significantly more expensive than the MBC. Not worth it in my opinion unless you are panel matching an existing automotive color. For overalls, you would not notice the difference. The MBC will take an extra coat compared with the DBU. If you are interested in my own detailed cost comparison of MBC/DBU, see this thread.

Like you, I cannot get the Delstar DAR locally at all. I understand it is available in some parts of the country. You can also get it mail-order, I guess, from here - that is if you want to pay the rather high price. I am assuming that the appropriate reducers and hardener are also available from the same seller but they don't seem to list them on their site. DAR is an excellent acrylic enamel but not worth the current high price, IMO, when the OMNI MAE and MTK is more readily available at a much lower cost.

Rod

I have only used the MC161 so I can't compare the other two. I have been perfectly satisfied with the 161. While not needed for gloss over a single stage paint, I have used it to clear over decals on MTK on my AC-B. I think that tends to blend the sharp edges of vinyl cut decals and gives them a smoother, more painted on appearance. It also provides some protection to the decal itself.

Don't get me wrong on the MBC. The DBU is a higher-end, "better" paint if you will. That's why it costs more - no such thing as a free lunch. All the work I do is for myself and unfortunately, I have to make value decisions on costs and benefits. I cannot pass along costs to customers and from my limited bc/cc experience and purpose, I believe the significant extra cost for the DBU over the MBC is not worth it. That would not be the case if I were operating a body shop where time constraints and color matching OEM car/truck panels are prime considerations. Under that situation the DBU would be the choice.

The OMNI line is not a high-end paint line and is not intended to be. However, I have found it to be quite satisfactory for my purposes and believe it provides a very good choice for a modern, durable paint at a reasonable price. I am not pushing only PPG here as I believe the similar economy lines in DuPont (NASON), Martin Senour and other big name paint manufacturers would provide similar value to tractor painters. I am not a brand basher as I think basic paint chemistry is a far more important criteria for paint selection than brand.

Rod