KBS Coatings DiamondFinish Clear Coat - Tough High Gloss Clear

In this review the KBS Coatings DiamondFinish Clear Coat is examined for painters, hobbyists and automotive DIYers who need a virtually permanent, high gloss protective topcoat. The bottom line: it is best for projects that demand chemical and heat resistance and a water clear finish with minimal prep; the single biggest reason to buy is its moisture cured urethane formula that cures without a hardener and provides exceptional durability and chemical resistance compared with many single-part clears.

Key Features

• Formulation: A moisture cured urethane that offers long-term durability, flexibility and corrosion resistance without a separate hardener.
• Application versatility: Can be applied direct to metal (DTM) and over cured basecoats, single- or two-part paints with minimal surface prep.
• High solids, low VOCs: With over 60% solids the clear lays down thick and glossy protection while meeting stricter VOC expectations.
• Chemical resistance: Resists fuels, solvents, battery acid, brake fluid and other harsh chemicals for easier cleanup and long-term protection.
• Temperature tolerance: Remains clear and flexible up to 300 F, making it suitable for high temperature automotive parts like engine covers and manifolds.
• Ease of use: No hardener required and cures between 50 and 86 F, so users can stir and apply without special curing equipment.

Who It's For

This clear coat is aimed at automotive hobbyists, small shop painters and craft users who need a high gloss, chemically resistant finish for metal parts, painted lures, engine components or outdoor items. It will appeal to people who want a durable topcoat that can be brushed, rolled or sprayed and that resists yellowing in heat.

Those who should look elsewhere include customers on a tight budget who prioritize fast tack-free time or those who need an ultra-rapid cure in temperatures below 50 F; some users also report long dry times and occasional cracking over months on certain substrates, so heavy production runs with quick turnaround may prefer faster curing two-part systems.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Exceptional chemical and solvent resistance, making cleanup and graffiti removal straightforward.
• High gloss, water clear finish that resists yellowing and remains flexible at elevated temperatures.
• Applies directly to metal and painted surfaces with minimal prep and no hardener required.
• Can be applied by brush, roller or conventional spray gun without obvious brush marks.

Cons

• Longer drying and cure times reported by some users, which can slow project completion.
• Perceived value concerns for some buyers given its premium positioning and cost.

Specifications

Brand	KBS Coatings
Type	Moisture cured urethane clear coat
Solids	Over 60% high solids
VOC	Low VOC formulation
Application	Brush, roller, conventional spray gun
Temperature tolerance	Performs up to 300 F without yellowing
Cure range	Will cure without heat from 50 to 86 F

Our Verdict

KBS DiamondFinish Clear Coat is a strong choice for anyone needing a chemically resistant, high gloss topcoat that can be applied direct to metal or over painted surfaces without a hardener. It is worth the price for projects that require heat and chemical resistance, though buyers should account for slower drying times compared with fast two-part systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can DiamondFinish be used on engine parts?
Yes, it tolerates temperatures up to 300 F and will not yellow, making it suitable for heads, blocks and other high temperature components.

Does this product require a hardener?
No, DiamondFinish is moisture cured and does not need a separate hardener; just stir and apply within the recommended temperature range.

Will it work over existing paint?
Yes, it can be applied directly over cured automotive basecoats, single-part or two-part paints with minimal surface preparation.