The All You Need To Know Guide on Rangers 2k Coating

The All You Need To Know Guide on Rangers 2k Coating

Understanding Rangers 2K Coating: What You Need to Know Before You Start

Rangers 2k coating is a professional-grade, two-component polyurethane protective coating system designed for extreme durability and mechanical protection. Unlike standard automotive paints, it creates a thick, tough, and textured protective layer engineered for high-impact areas like truck beds, chassis, and off-road vehicle panels.

Quick Facts:

  • Mix Ratio: 3:1 (coating to hardener)
  • Application: UBS gun or conventional spray gun
  • Drying Time: Dust dry in 1 hour, touch dry in 3 days, full cure in 7 days (at 20°C/68°F)
  • Coverage: 2.5-6.5 m² per litre
  • Finish: Textured with optional anti-slip additive
  • Resistance: Excellent chemical, mechanical, and UV protection

Available Options:

The coating works through a chemical reaction between the polyurethane base and a hardener. Once mixed, you have about one hour to apply it before it cures. Its key features include a functional structured texture, the ability to be applied in thick layers, UV filters, anti-corrosive agents, and soundproofing benefits. It adheres to steel, aluminium, polyester, and properly primed plastics.

Achieving a professional, long-lasting result requires correct surface preparation, mixing, and application. This guide walks you through the exact steps for everything from surface prep to troubleshooting.

Large industrial tin containing black protective polyurethane Rangers 2K coating for automotive use.

What is Rangers 2K Protective Polyurethane Coating?

Think of Rangers 2k coating as body armour for your vehicle. It's a professional-grade, two-component (2K) polyurethane protective coating system designed for extreme punishment. The "2K" means a base resin and a hardener are mixed, triggering a chemical reaction that creates an incredibly tough, durable layer. This chemical curing process is fundamentally different from single-component paints that simply dry, resulting in far stronger molecular bonds.

What sets Rangers 2k coating apart is its distinctive structured texture, which provides functional benefits like improved grip and impact absorption. Formulated from high-quality raw materials, it's suitable for automotive, industrial, and agricultural applications. You can learn more on the Rangers protective polyurethane coating manufacturer's page.

Two component set of Rangers 2K coating and its specific hardener required for a heavy duty finish.

Core Protective Qualities

People choose Rangers 2k coating for its ability to create a defensive shield against conditions that would destroy ordinary paint.

  • Chemical Resistance: It handles oil, petrol, and corrosive salt water without breaking down, creating a barrier that protects the substrate from fuel spills, hydraulic fluid, and other harsh chemicals.
  • Mechanical Resistance: Scratches, stains, and impacts barely mark a properly applied Rangers coating, making it ideal for work vehicles and truck beds. It forms a thick, resilient layer that absorbs impacts and resists abrasion.
  • Weather Resistance: Integrated UV filters prevent sun damage and colour fading, which is crucial in Australia's intense sunlight.
  • Corrosion Protection: Built-in anti-corrosive agents provide excellent protection against rust, especially for chassis, undercarriages, and metal parts exposed to moisture.
  • Soundproofing: The thick, textured layer dampens vibrations and reduces road noise, making vehicle cabins noticeably quieter.
  • Thick Application: It can be applied in thick layers (up to 150 micrometres per coat), improving protection and creating a more pronounced texture.

Common Applications

The versatility of Rangers 2k coating is remarkable. Popular uses include:

  • Truck bed liners: Creates a durable, anti-slip surface that protects against impacts, scratches, and chemical spills.
  • Automotive Chassis and Undercoating: Provides a tough barrier against rust, stone chips, and road debris.
  • Body Panels and Bull Bars: Offers rugged protection for off-road vehicles against branches and rocks.
  • Vehicle Interiors: Used on SUV floors, trunk interiors, and wheel arches for a durable, easy-to-clean surface that also reduces noise.
  • Off-Road and Commercial Vehicles: Improves the resilience of Jeeps, 4x4s, ATVs, caravans, and heavy-duty equipment.
  • Industrial and Agricultural Equipment: Extends the life of machinery and tools exposed to abrasion and corrosive substances.

Available Rangers 2K Coating Kits

We stock Rangers 2k coating in several sizes, available in a classic black or a tintable version.

The Complete Application Guide for Rangers 2K Coating

Achieving professional results with Rangers 2k coating requires proper preparation, correct application, and patience. Do not rush the process or skip steps.

Before starting, ensure you have proper ventilation and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Working with 2K coatings involves chemical fumes, so a quality respirator or an Air Fed Mask, chemical-resistant gloves, and protective overalls are essential for your safety.

Automotive painter donning full PPE, including respirator, before applying Rangers 2K coating in the workshop.

Step 1: Essential Surface Preparation

The longevity of your coating depends almost entirely on surface preparation. Any contaminants or poorly adhered old coatings will compromise the final result.

  • Metal (Steel, Galvanised, Stainless, Aluminium): Thoroughly degrease and clean the surface. Sand with P180-P320 grit sandpaper or abrasive blast to Sa 2 ½ standard. Clean and degrease again.
  • Priming: Never apply Rangers 2k coating directly to bare metal or over 1K primers. Use a quality 2K primer or epoxy primer to ensure proper adhesion and corrosion resistance. Allow the primer to dry completely as per its technical data sheet.
  • Polyester Laminates: Sand with P180 grit paper or an unwoven abrasive fabric, then clean and degrease.
  • Polyester Body Fillers: Sand with P120-P240 grit, then clean and degrease thoroughly.
  • Plastic Surfaces: Degrease, sand with P240 grit paper or an unwoven abrasive fabric, and degrease again. Prime with a plastic adhesion promoter. Always perform an adhesion test on a hidden spot first.

Step 2: Mixing the Coating Correctly

Precision is essential for proper curing. The mixing ratio is 3 parts coating to 1 part hardener by weight or volume. For larger kits like the Rangers 2K Coating Black Kit of 4 or 8.4L kits, measure carefully.

Shake the Rangers 2k coating can thoroughly before adding the hardener. Once combined, close the can and shake vigorously for two minutes to ensure a homogenous mixture. The pot life is about one hour at 20°C (68°F), so only mix what you can use within that time.

  • Anti-Slip: For extra grip, mix in TROTON RANGERS anti-slip additive powder (approx. 10g per 1kg of mixed coating) and shake for another two minutes.
  • Tinting: With the Rangers 2K Coating Tintable 8.4L Kit, add 5-15% acrylic solvent-borne toners, basecoats, or topcoats for custom colours. Our custom colour matching service can help you get the perfect shade.

Step 3: Applying the Rangers 2k coating

Rangers 2k coating can be applied with different tools for varied textures.

  • UBS Anti-Gravel Gun: This is the most popular method for a pronounced, textured finish. Use an inlet pressure of 2 to 4 bar (29 to 58 psi) at a distance of 20 to 50 cm (8 to 20 inches).
  • Conventional Gravity Spray Gun: For a finer texture, use a 1.6-2.5 mm nozzle at 2.0 bar (29 psi) from about 40 cm (16 inches).
  • Brush or Roller: Suitable for small areas or touch-ups where a uniform texture is less critical.

Apply two layers for optimal protection. Wait 30 to 50 minutes for flash-off time between coats to allow solvents to evaporate. A UBS gun yields about 150 micrometres of dry film thickness per layer, while a conventional gun produces about 50 micrometres.

Curing, Drying Times, and Technical Specifications

Understanding the difference between physical drying (solvent evaporation) and chemical curing (molecular bonding) is key to success with Rangers 2k coating. Temperature plays a massive role in both processes.

Drying and Curing Timetable

At 20°C (68°F), the drying and curing process follows this timeline:

  • Dust Dry: 1 hour. Airborne particles will no longer stick to the surface.
  • Touch Dry: 3 days. The part can be handled gently for careful assembly.
  • Full Cure: 7 days. The coating achieves maximum hardness and chemical resistance. Do not subject the surface to heavy use or harsh chemicals before this time.

You can accelerate physical drying by baking the item at a maximum of 45°C (113°F) for 50-60 minutes, after allowing 1.5-2 hours of evaporation time at room temperature. However, baking does not speed up the 7-day chemical curing process required for full hardness.

Technical Data for the Rangers 2k coating

Here is a quick reference for key technical specifications.

  • Mixing Ratio: 3 parts coating to 1 part hardener.
  • Pot Life: 1 hour at 20°C (68°F).
  • VOC Content: 389 g/l (UBS gun) or 530 g/l (gravity gun + 20% thinner), well within the EU limit of 840 g/l.
  • Nozzle Sizes: 1.4-2.5 mm for UBS and conventional gravity guns.
  • Application Pressure: 2-4 bar (29-58 psi) for a UBS gun; 2.0 bar (29 psi) for a conventional gravity gun.
  • Coverage: 2.5-3 m²/l (UBS gun) or 3.5-6.5 m²/l (conventional gun).
  • Application: 2 layers with 30-50 minutes flash-off time between coats.
  • Storage: Keep unopened containers sealed at 15-25°C (59-77°F), away from heat and sunlight.
  • Shelf Life: 24 months for the coating and hardener.

These specifications apply to all kits, including the Rangers 2K Coating Black 840ml Single and the larger Rangers 2K Coating Black 8.4L Kit. For more information, explore our industrial paint supplies or contact our expert team.

Frequently Asked Questions about Rangers 2K Coating

Here are answers to the most common questions about Rangers 2k coating.

Can Rangers 2K Coating be tinted to a custom colour?

Yes. While the classic black is popular, the Rangers 2K Coating Tintable 8.4L Kit allows for custom colours. You can achieve your desired shade by adding 5–10% toner for basecoat, or up to 10–15% basecoat/topcoat depending on the system. This allows you to match existing vehicle colours or create a unique look. Our team at Eastern Auto Paints uses advanced technology to help you get the perfect shade.

How does Rangers 2K compare to standard automotive paint?

Standard automotive paint is primarily cosmetic, offering a smooth finish with basic protection. Rangers 2k coating is engineered as a protective system.

Key differences include:

  • Durability and Thickness: Rangers is a 2K polyurethane applied up to 150 micrometres per coat, which is three to six times thicker than standard paint, providing superior durability.
  • Functionality: Its textured finish offers grip and hides imperfections, while its chemical and mechanical resistance protects against oil, petrol, scratches, and impacts that would ruin regular paint.

In short, while standard paint is for aesthetics, Rangers 2k coating is for serious, long-lasting protection on surfaces facing tough conditions. Explore the full Rangers 2K Coating product line for your project needs.

Can I apply a clear coat over Rangers 2K Coating?

Yes, you can apply a clear coat for a different finish or extra protection although this is a very tough product as it is. Wait at least 24 hours after applying the Rangers coating, then lightly abrade and clean the surface to ensure proper adhesion. We recommend using a quality 2K clear coats for the best results.

Get Professional Results with the Right Products

You now have the knowledge to master the application of Rangers 2k coating for professional results. This complete solution provides extreme durability, superior chemical and mechanical resistance, and UV protection for any surface facing tough conditions. By following the preparation and application steps in this guide, you can create a protective barrier that will last for years.

Having the right product is only half the equation; expert advice and a trusted supplier are just as crucial. At Eastern Auto Paints, we have been Melbourne's trusted supplier of high-quality automotive and industrial paints for over 34 years. Our experienced team provides expert advice to professionals and DIY enthusiasts across Victoria, Sydney, and Queensland, ensuring you get your project right the first time.

We stock the complete range of Rangers 2k coating products, from the Rangers 2K Coating Black 840ml Single to the large Rangers 2K Coating Tintable 8.4L Kit. To see more options, Explore our full range of Ute Liners and Underbody Sealers.

A lasting finish comes down to the details. With this guide and quality Rangers 2k coating products from Eastern Auto Paints, you have everything needed for a professional result that withstands any challenge. If you have questions about your project, our team is always ready to help.

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