Is there something that will replace the Reactive Reducer in Deltron DBU9700?

[hurst01]

I have a gallon of Deltron DBU9700 Black that I purchased several years ago. Due to many health problems I was not able to use it on my car. I found out a little bit back then they are no longer making the Reactive Reducer for the paint. I am figuring that just about any good quality urethane reducer might work but the reactive part is what is getting me. Will a good urethane reducer along with an activator do the same thing? How about the mixing ratio?
Then there is the age of the paint itself. I have been told that the paint is too old and should not be used. Is that right? Personally, to my knowledge paint will not go bad as long as it has not been exposed to any kind of hardener or activator. I read on another thread on this forum that I could make my own activator by using 1 ounce of good quality hardener for clear coat per cup of mixed paint. I really would like to not have to buy another gallon of paint if I can come up with a replacement for the Reactive Reducer. One long time painter that I know told me that I should not even be mixing components from different brands, much less trying to make my own reactive reducer. He says it might look good for a few months or a couple years but it will eventually show problems that I will regret.
Any knowledgable opinions will be most appreciated.

Thanks, Ed

 

[Chris_Hamilton]

Already answered your question in another thread you started.

Reactive Reducer for PPG DBU/DDR

I have a full un-opened gallon of PPG DBU Black, could be DDR but can't remember. But I do remember it requires a Reactive Reducer which is no longer available rendering the pain useless. I was reading on another post that I might could make my own activator by using one ounce of SPI activator...

www.spiuserforum.com

 

[Chris_Hamilton]

One long time painter that I know told me that I should not even be mixing components from different brands, much less trying to make my own reactive reducer.

He has no idea what he's talking about. First off there is no reaction between the DBU and the reactive reducer. It is simply reducer with the clear activator already mixed in. It does not actually even "react" or catalyze the DBU base. It simply makes it a little more resistant to solvent and makes the base itself a little stronger. What was recommended in that thread is essentially the same makeup as the PPG reactive reducer. It will do the same thing the RR will do.
Many many guys have used DBU in the manner described in the other thread. Barry Kives who is the founder of SPI and formulated all of SPI's products recommended it, and with his understanding of Chemistry and his quality standards, he would never advise it if it wasn't correct or would fail in short order. Believe me, don't believe me I don't care. But it is the truth and it will work fine.

And if you want to use that DBU it's your only option nowadays. You have to make your own because it is no longer available.