THE PAINTSPOT(830) 899-2845

Newsletter March-April 2025

March 2025

I apologized for sending you a poorly formatted document, it is my fault, this is a corrected version that is much easy to read. Rick Ciotti I apologized for sending you a poorly formatted document, it is my fault, this is a corrected version that is much easy to read.

Before I get started, I'd like to thank all the people in the world who finally came to our side. Admitting you were wrong is very hard to do. I also want to “brag” about the fact, that some of us were on Trump's side from the very first second and NEVER wavered one inch. I personally put everything I had on the line, and We can literally thank GOD for the results of this election. We really “dodged a bullet” ( , and that bullet would have certainly caused the death of America as we know it.

I purposely waited on this issue until now, to give the new administration some time to show results, and they have sure shown some doozies!

We've all wondered how it was that an ordinary person went into office “middle class”, and came out a “million or billion – aire”?

Don't know how y'all feel about coincidences, but “Left” does rhyme with “Theft” ( Thanks to the “Trump Team”, we've uncovered the corruption that not only explains the above, but exposed the global operation, and hopefully, changed some minds about “Coincidence”.....lol!

The list of countries that have intentionally mismanaged their tax payers money which includes all continents, is mind boggling, and the strategy is identical! Redirect tax money to “hoakie programs”, in “hoakie places”, and enrich-en the “hoakie handlers” along the way. It's an elaborate, circular money laundering scheme, that not only brings money back to support and protect the “supposedly elected” people that want the one world order, but to insulate those who ran “interference” for them along the way! Yes, now we know why main stream media ratings went down the shitter, but they still managed to stay afloat!

Here's the hilarious part about the whole thing......... “We The People” actually financed this “Shit Show”!

Furthermore, we couldn't do anything about it because they had the elections so rigged, and so well funded, thanks to the taxpayers! This finally explains how California has remained democrat, even though they're the minority. As a matter of fact, the only states where Kamala out performed Trump, were blue states where voting rules were changed!

Even still, Trump out strategized them by simply making it “too big to rig”! There's a lot to that, but let's just say that his daughter in law had a HUGE role in it :).

So, how could our country get to the point where, instead of “protecting the people”, the goal becomes “impoverishing the people”. Instead of “improving our lives”, we were pushed aside, while illegal trespassers from other countries were coerced into coming here, and given free handouts when they arrived!?

To “Impoverish” the people, is to “control” the people, and to “control” the people is to control the “goal”. To bring millions and millions of people into our country, and then to flagrantly lavish them with benefits that citizens don't even get, is designed to de-stabilize our economy, and a provocation of “Civil War”.........it is also “TREASON”!

Thank God we're not as stupid or racist as those dumb ass's thought, we know a set up when we see one.....January 6, 2020 taught us well!

By the way, the goal (one world order) would require “population reduction” on a massive scale. If you open your eyes and ears, you'll easily find that this has been happening simultaneously. However, the grand finale, could only come about when they succeeded in bringing down our beloved America. We are the “linchpin”, the perpetual “thorn in the side” of those who have attempted this vision in the past. This time, we had to be eliminated, and it would have to come from within!

Is this reminding the readers of anything? Let me give you a clue: How many times have you heard the left ( ) make reference to “Hitler”, “Nazi”, “Fascist”, “Stalinist”, etc. ? There's a good reason they used the “Hitler card” so much. It was the chosen strategy of how they would assume absolute power, and the best part was......the play book was already written! Slight modifications could be made to make up for Adolph's mistakes via Karl Marx and Saul Alinski's gibberish ( ). It's how they unified their message, rallied troops, and it's also how they justified their position! A childish game of “I know you are, but what am I”. As long as they accused their opponents of this, the attention would shift away from the actual deceivers. A brilliant move, however, it requires ignorance to succeed. That's where it all fell apart, as they needed a bit more time to fully “Dumb Down” Americans. Trump outed them by forcing them to speed up, and you know what they say........”Haste makes waste”, and they've been tripping over themselves ever since.............Brilliant!

BTW: The play book even included “The final solution”. Everybody knows “loose lips sink ships”, so what do you think happens to all who participated in this triumphant march to the glorious “one world order”, and got rich along the way? Yeah, they'd be the first group taking a nice, water- less shower.....but they damn sure wouldn't be the last!

With all that out of the way, let's Segway to my next subject............

Look what's going on at the highest level of our country right now. We've seen one man “lead by example” before, and I certainly was inspired by that. Now, that same man has assembled a “team” that ALL lead by example..........how can you not be inspired and motivated?

Anyone who's reading this that's familiar with being self-employed knows what has changed since Trump has been out of office. It didn't take long before materials and supplies were all but nonexistent, and the perfect excuse was “supply chain issues due to COVID 19”.

In actuality, it was part of the plan outlined above. However, as it turns out it was “optional”. We closed down the Buda location and consolidated everything here in Canyon Lake. I also purchased some used equipment that I had familiarity with, that allowed us to use toners from different mfg's. All this, in an effort to keep ourselves alive.

We were not the only ones that did “Whatever it Takes” to stay alive, but most people didn't have the fortitude to do what we did. Lots of companies either closed their doors, or turned “woke”.

So, I'm not saying that the company (s) that this upcoming story is about is guilty of “woke-ism”

What you'll see and / or read from here forward is my account, with some supporting correspondence of GREAT companies, with Great people, that have sadly gone to hell.

I'm going to lead y'all through this story, as it occurred, and realize this: This Newsletter is being emailed to all executives and hierarchy, in all companies involved. They NEED TO KNOW how their people at the Distribution and CSR levels, are treating their customers vs. how I was treated by really great people just a few years ago.............................

Ok, first of all I want to make it crystal clear that this is NOT intended to be a "personal" attack. It is, however, straight forward communication coming your way from your customer base.......We have experienced a high failure rate with the Iwata Ak1R diaphragm regulators. This is NOT the first run in with these things! As I look back, the first failure was AK1R, and most recently AK1R2. Literally 6 out of 10 are bad right out of the gate, and some go bad not long after initial use. Ironically, the ones that last seem to last for years (I've had one on two personal guns that have been used for a long time). Specifically, the problem is "buzzing" or "vibrating" of the diaphragm when in use. Upon requesting a solution, we were sent a different regulator (RTI ?) that failed miserably...........leaking air!!!!

Here is my observation: "Someone" is attempting to let cost dictate the destiny of Iwata! Whoever is in this position needs to be not only exposed but FIRED IMMEDIATELY!!!! I say this, because this problem has gone on for too long. Furthermore, the RTI regulators were known by me to have a high failure rate way before we ever started ordering yours! How could you not know this? How could you not know you were having problems with yours? Who is not "Inspecting what they expect"?????? This is total bullshit, and I'm not joking when I say someone needs to lose their job! I want accountability!!!!

Got any idea what it feels like to have a pissed off customer come into your store and throw a defective (the third one mind you) regulator at you? I do!

In case you are not aware, I am not just a "jobber", I am a dedicated Iwata user! I also have received quite an education on the use of a "diaphragm regulator", as opposed to a "Restrictor valve" from "Brian Lynch" from "Matrix Automotive Finishes", who by the way, has endorsed your Iwata guns for many years, even to the point of rewriting information 'P' sheets specifically mentioning Iwata (I've personally witnessed him defending the Iwata line, and specifically, the use of diaphragm regulators exclusively, in front of SATA reps who were angry with him for not using their guns at events, and openly said "There's no benefit to using a diaphragm over a restrictor!). At "The Paint Spot" I will NOT sell an Iwata gun without a diaphragm regulator.........PERIOD! Not only that, but I will NOT sell ANY gun other than an Iwata. They are what I use, and if you want a Sata or a Devilbiss, or????? I will send you away!

Because the Iwata name is a trusted name in the industry, I believe it is essential that #1, people need to know the difference between a "restrictor" and a "regulator", and how that translates into better results. #2, Iwata diaphragm regulators need to be AT LEAST the high quality of the guns they are attached to!

Here's what I'm doing (on my own): I did a search for "AMERICAN MADE" diaphragm regulators, and as of this moment, I've got a company tech scheduled to call regarding this situation. My objective is to replace the miserable equipment you are selling, with a dependable unit. I am sick and tired of Chinese bullshit! I don't care what anyone says about quality control guidelines, nobody else is complaining, it would be cost prohibitive to get American made, etc.

I don't even get a paycheck from Iwata, and I'm willing to solve their problems, so by God, find the person(s) responsible for this, and get rid of them..........or lose your market share to the next company who recognizes your weakness!

Here's what I want from y’all..........."Gauges" that have the Iwata name on them! This will allow me to fit one to every "Good" regulator I sell.

In closing, if you're smart, don't engage in "ass covering", and care about the fact that accepting a pay check from a company that obviously cares about their image, and procuring substandard merchandise.....equates to THEFT, you'll take my advice.

P.S. When was the last time you had a distributor care so much about your product that they actually took it upon themselves to find a solution?

The same day that I reached out to Iwata, I received a response from a very proactive individual named “Chris Sherrod”, from “Compressed Air Systems”. Note how proudly and thoroughly he addresses my problem, while emphasizing the quality and reputation of their product line......”WILKERSON”!

Who, on God's green earth, would not want an employee like this?

Look at his ability to offer a “solution” (instead of an excuse)!

NOTE: Chris sent some specs for the “R-16” regulator (I'll include them below). At this point I think it is not known to him that I need it to fit on the end of a spray gun. This is primarily due to my lack of knowledge regarding regulators, and assuming they knew what I was talking about.

There's also a reference to an “R-18” in the next exhibit as well. Right around this time, I was sent a sample, to show what we were all talking about. That's when I realized we were WAY off base. The sample was bigger than any paint gun I've ever seen, and heavier than 10 guns combined!

Much of the original correspondence was phone conversations, but I remember someone saying “don't worry about it Rick, we can scale it to almost any size! Again, very accommodating people.

I’ve attached some technical data spec sheets pertaining to the R-16 line of regulators- these should answer any question concerning form, fit, or function.

Wilkerson products are 100% manufactured in the United States, Richland Michigan to be exact. Below I’ve included a link to the Smithsonian website; they actually store Wilkerson Corp trade catalogs (dating back to 1948) at the National Museum of American history- how many manufacturers can say that?

http://americanhistory.si.edu/collections/search/object/SILNMAHTL_28429 Please don’t hesitate to contact me with any questions or concerns.

This is from a gentleman named “Jack Conner”. Look how proactive he is! I think this is probably when the “big one” was about to show up, because the next email is where I mention the #R08-02-WOGO.

Apparently there was some communication between Jack and Iwata / Nick, because he makes mention of my newsletter (he called it a “blog”).

Hello Rick, thank you for your time today and I’m happy we’ve come to an initial agreement on the regulator model type. As soon as they’re ready to leave the docks I’ll contact you with the shipping details. Until then please see the attached “R18” regulator data sheet for your review.

Thanks again Rick, if you write about this experience in your blog please let me know. Our marketing team may share it with your permission.

Here's a man from Pneumatic Supply Inc. that's trying to help me. He refers me to Jack Conner for pricing.

If you sent a pic, nothing showed up. I clicked on the link and nothing appears.

Here is The 1/4” regulator . Please contact Jack Connors at Compressed Air Systems for pricing .

Here's some of my concerns going back to “James Marshall” (Pneumatic Supply Inc)

NOTE: Jacks concern at the bottom. He recommends the RO8-02-FOGO (1/4”), as opposed to the RO8-01-FOGO.

Also note that nobody is losing their cool, and if you're getting the picture here, there's lots of moving parts to this situation. Clearly, everyone is vested in getting my problem solved. Couldn't ask for better people.

From: PAINT SPOT business RICK CIOTTI/owner <rcpaintspot@gmail.com> Ok, the Ro8-01-FOGO looks interesting. The built in gauge is a plus, and because this regulator is still a little larger than the Iwata AK1R-2, that saves a bulky obstacle from getting in the way of the user. Are they reliable? Are they American made?

Because of the confusion of these last regulators, I think it's best to send me (1) to make sure these are the right ones. I had set ya'll up with Nick McDaniels from "Asset", was there a communication issue?

From: PAINT SPOT business RICK CIOTTI/owner <rcpaintspot@gmail.com> Ok, well I'm a little concerned about the size, and think you should send only 1 so I can make absolutely sure these are what we need. I will need to get a call tag or something to send all this other stuff back. If the built in gauge works, then I won't need any gauges (they are made in CHINA anyway, I noticed.......not good). The quantity will be the same, but like I said, send only one so I can approve.

The R08-01-F0G0 is an 1/8” regulator. You want the R08-02-F0G0. Its ¼” . Yes , they work great and are made in Michigan . I have them on my shelf and can ship today. You will have to talk to Jack about Nick from “Asset”.

This is where our deal finally landed, at “Womack”. “Monica Garcia” is the CSR that's been handed our needs / order. I still want to make sure that this Part Number #RO8-02-WOGO is what we need. Along the way, you can see where part numbers changes.......”rather be safe than sorry” I always say!

Note: My reference to connecting the Wilkerson regulator with Iwata.

Also Note the seminar, put on by Womack that Monica recommends......that's a great CSR!

Monica, from the info that you sent, and from what I've learned about regulators in the last three weeks (which is one thousand times more than I ever cared to learn) under "ordering information" Part # RO8-02-WOGO looks to be what I'm looking for. I would like (1) for comparison / testing as soon as we can get it. If you accept credit cards I'll pay for it with freight as soon as you are able. If everything checks out, I will need an additional 24 as soon as we can get them. This will be a standard item moving forward for both locations of The Paint Spot. Furthermore, I have every intention of connecting the dots with "Anest Iwata" as a "permanent" replacement for the Chinese shit they've been distributing. I'm sure your price to me is competitive, and if it's close to the price I got from "Compressed Air Systems", that's a better deal than the garbage coming out of China! :)

This powerful 3 day seminar gives the Student practical Hands On experience in understanding and troubleshooting hydraulic circuits – for a schedule of upcoming classes or to enroll visit us at Womack Machine Supply Confidentiality Notice: This email message, including any attachments, contains information intended only for the addressee(s) named above. If you are not the intended recipient, please notify the sender immediately by reply message and delete this email message and any attachments from your system.

This is where Nick (Iwata) informs me he's going out of the country, and that he's shared my newsletter with contacts in Asia and Europe regarding an American solution to the regulator problem.

Good Morning Rick, I'm sorry we have not talked for a while. Also sorry for the late message as I am traveling out of the country. I was sharing your Newsletter with some folks from Europe and Asia and we have a new solution for regulators in the US. Stay tuned.

I love what you do. In a world of. "Big Jobbers" we need more guys like you to put an emphasis on our products. I like guys that like to sell shit. . I won't accept any other gun to take our place.

Here's some recent paperwork regarding the order that prompted this Newsletter...........

Here's some emailed correspondence between myself (Rick) and a "higher ranking person" (Shari), than the dipstick (Chad) that did nothing but give lip service and point fingers, while we accumulated back orders, and months went by. During this time I never got involved. The order was being handled through "normal" channels (my office mgr "Thalia").

image001.jpg (2.3 MB)image002.jpg (1.8 MB)image003.jpg (1.8 MB)image004.jpg (1.7 MB)MOTION SOLUTIONS.pdf (4.9 MB)ORDER ACKNOWLEDGEMENT.pdf (4.5 MB)– Download all Shari, per our conversation, I'm sending information regarding our order (10-29-24) and received (1-22-25).

The regulators are NOT correct, but for whatever reason, the stickers reflect the same number.......?

Apparently, our vendor has changed hands and that's a major source of frustration. We will NEVER deal with these fools again!

Am sending our "order acknowledgement", and "packing list" as well.

Also, see attached photos of correct Wilkerson Regulator vs. what we received. Pic #1: Received regulator (left).......Correct Regulator (Right). Pic #2: Same orientation, but number bellow scan code is different (not sure what that means). Pic #3: Guage port differences, and obvious casting / material differences.

Shari, I need you to know how horrible this distributor has treated us, but it was almost worth it by pure virtue of getting to deal with "Melissa". She's the kind of employee any company would be proud to have. FYI: She assured me that you were the "go to" person who could (would) definitely get to the bottom of our dilemma.

image005.jpg (4.8 KB)image001.jpg (2.3 MB)image002.jpg (1.8 MB)image003.jpg (1.8 MB)image004.jpg (1.7 MB)Wilkerson R08.pdf (146.6 KB)Wilkerson R08 Old Style.jpg (2.8 MB)Wilkerson 08 Series Redesign - PDN 11-23.pdf (1.2 MB)– Download all I see the issue with the differences in the regulators. These are the same part number. There was a running design change, and you will notice this in the part number. The “B” on the end indicates the change. I have included the catalog tech sheets for you in the attachment that delineates the changes that were made to our R08 regulators as well as the PDF of the Wilkerson 08 Series Re-design that happened in November 2023.

We did have some issues with manufacturing these regarding the body shortages and diaphragm issues to build. As well, we had issues with the robot cell that makes these now. I do apologize for the long lead time on these. The Wilkerson R08 regulators are made in Richland, MI not Asia. The blame for the delays should rest with us, not Evolution Motion Systems, as far as the delay goes.

Please look at the information I sent to you and let me know how you would like to proceed. It looks like you received the new designed regulators and that is what we offer now. Please give me a call or send me an email. Happy to help!

Thank you again for your compliments on Melissa!! I will be sure to pass those along… From what I can see here, the "R08-01-F000" is what we want. We already have gauges that screw into the ports on the side of the correct regulator (the plastic square gauges don't last four paint jobs before the overspray and thinner / reducer take a toll on them). They have also been made in China and we have the documentation to support it (that's how we ended up with the gauges that we currently use). This was a solution / option that Womack came up with, in record time!)

*The "B" that you speak of, as indicating the running change, is on the correct regulators (old stock), how is this possible?

*How and why is it that we were not informed of this change? Someone went to a lot of trouble producing "Notice of New Product" (Bulletin number NPC-FRL-638) Dated: 11/01/2023, only "to not" inform those who were known purchasers of that regulator?

* You say that the initial problem in mfg delays was on you, and I appreciate the honesty, but to down play Evolution Motion's role is 100% unacceptable! Frankly, it's It's taken 3+ months, several excuses, ignored responses, and payment billed / received prior to any of what has since transpired.

We now, have finally, received a shipment of regulators that are NOT what we ordered, and WON'T work.

It would be an absolute shame to walk away from Wilkerson, but that will have been out of my control.

A lot of time has already been wasted on this debacle, and we have to resolve this NOW!

As you can see, I was NOT happy! I never am when I have to get involved with these kind of issues.

At this point, we've paid for something we DIDN'T order, took forever to get, and received something we cannot sell.

While all this was going on, it was known (by "them") that there was no intention of getting us what we ordered! That's 100% crystal clear by the "change order", that they so willingly provided AFTER they decided they needed something to COVER THEIR ASS!

In closing, I would like you, "John Ward" (G.M. Pneumatic Division), to know who I am (a customer), what we've been through, how we became a customer, and how we've been handled (by whom) as a customer.

If you think we've been treated "fairly", then that tells me everything I need to know about you and your company.

If you see that we've been treated unfairly, then please feel free to contact me (man to man) and let me know what you think should be done to resolve this situation.

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Straight talk on products, industry variables and what actually works. Written by Rick.

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