Getting Contents Out Of Old Spray Cans

[ggray]

I want to extract the contents of an old paint (actually cold galvanize) spray can.

As is not unusual, the nozzle stopped up, and while I may be able to find a nozzle that works, I really want to get the liquid out and apply with a paint brush.

Years ago I saw a purpose made device that punctured a hole in the bottom of old paint spray to drain any paint. Was at a large industrial plant that needed to dispose of things properly.

I've wondered about either drilling a small hole near the top end of the can, or use a hammer and small nail. Coveralls and face shield, of course, as I suspect there is still some gas pressure. Could chill the can to reduce the pressure, too.

Has anyone done anything like this and can advise? Or knows it's a bad idea?

Thanks!

[billknny]

Seriously, the $2 worth of paint is NOT worth the risk.

It is a seriously bad idea.

If you do it, be sure to record the video so the youtube ad fees will pay 0.001% of your medical bills.

This belongs in the, "Hold my beer, and watch this!" category.

[belizesailor]

Small caliber weapon from a distance! [emoji6]

Soaking in a bit of paint thinner and cleaning w a small wire/pick often fixes the clogged spray head issue.

Never tried to puncture one, but risk of fire/explosion would be biggest concern. Use non-ferrous tools and give it a whack on the high end (liquid in low end). Appropriate saftey gear too of course.

Actually the small caliber weapon (like a pellet gun) might work, be fun, and keep you a safe distance away. Clamp it in a vice or similar and plink the high end (this way it wont fall over and waste paint).

[belizesailor]

Originally Posted by billknny

Seriously, the $2 worth of paint is NOT worth the risk.

It is a seriously bad idea.

If you do it, be sure to record the video so the youtube ad fees will pay 0.001% of your medical bills.

This belongs in the, "Hold my beer, and watch this!" category.

Good point, but I would suggest the "why women live longer than men" category....there is some funny stuff in there.

A galvenized flaming smurf could be seriously funny! [emoji6]

[ggray]

Glad I could provide some entertainment this evening!

Yeah, I didn't want to be the first to try this. And it's not the $2 worth of paint. It's some paint close at hand that I need right now. Right now. So thanks for responding quickly, anyway!

I suspect it can be done, but I'm chicken.

Years ago, like close to 60, I wasn't far from a fire barrel that someone had foolishly deposited an aerosol can.

Boom!

But that's a different scenario.

[Dsanduril]

Of course there's a YouTube for that - you didn't get it from me

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=liBBsXfXnjM

[ggray]

That looks easy! I thought it could be done. Thanks!

But first, I just found a new nozzle I had bought for 35 cents some time ago. The last one I used leaked terribly, but that will give me something to use with a brush.

Will try that first. (I'm a bit chicken!)

But will remember that youtube idea.

[coopec43]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=weQkUHbr-Ww

[boden36]

I've done it a few times. Just use a sharp nail on the convex part of the can next to the large ring around the valve area. Just a tiny puncture to let the gas out, and when it is exhausted a larger hole to decant the contents. Never had any dramas but maybe I have just been lucky. If you want to keep a rattle can nozzle clean, after spraying the can upside down to clear the valve, take the nozzle off and attach it to a brake cleaner can - a little spray will clean it up like new for next time.



Regards,
Richard.

[bruceb]

A puncturing type AC freon can dispenser (have to get the right size or shim it) will put a small hole in the side and under control. You have to add a small hose to aim it- I have done plenty of them. Of course, protect your hands and eyes!

B

[captmikem]

I have actually done this.. used an old style beer can opener. Shake the can good to mix the paint, turn it upside down, make a tiny hole, then once the pressure is gone make a larger one and pour it out. It is really not much of a problem.

M

[smbdyiam2]

A lot of places/stores/ amazonics would have delivered by today.

[GregGarner]

I have had excellent luck with pulling the nozzle off, scraping the outside clean, and the using an air compressor to blow out the nozzle. 99% of the time this clears the nozzle and makes it work again.

If this works, then you can just spray all the paint out into the paint can lid or other small container, and then use a brush as you wanted.

GregGarner

[conchaway]

You own a boat and can't afford a can of paint?!

[waterman46]

Is this a boat cruiser thing or what��??