Overcoating original paint - Aluminum 1973 Starcraft

[djfam]

Finishing up a 3 year renovation of a 1973 Starcraft 18' Holiday. My last task is to paint the boat, which is aluminum. The original paint is in pretty good shape for it's age, with only a few spots of bare metal. I want to paint it white as the original paint is Avocado Green and it is UGLY! My question is...do I need to use true marine paint or can I use latex based paints or even a Rustoleum product? I've read on the web that these can be used, but am looking for some "expert" advice. I've also heard that you can paint the aluminum with any paint if it is prepped right, but my paint is in such good shape that I am thinking about using the origianl paint as my primer/undercoat. Thanks in advance for your help.

 

[surlyjoe]

Re: Overcoating original paint - Aluminum 1973 Starcraft

dont use cheap paint, it will cost you more in the end. get some good zinc chromate etching primer for the bare spots. after cleaning the hell out of it and sanding the old paint lightly, hit the bare spots with the zinc primer and then brush/spray the topcoat on. you may want to test the topcoat on the old paint in a small area first to check for lifting, but it should be OK. I suggest to roll/brush it as touchups are way easier. I have already touched mine up once from some reel scars and I only painted it at Christmas time.<br /><br />do a search on "roll and tip" to get some info on the process..

 

[DJ]

Re: Overcoating original paint - Aluminum 1973 Starcraft

Use ONLY marine paint. Yes. it's expensive.<br /><br />On the bare spots, do this:<br /><br />1. Wash with 50/50 solution of vinegar and water.<br /><br />2. Treat and paint with zinc chromate paint.<br /><br />3. Finish with primer and desired top coat.<br /><br />The top coat will adhere fine to sanded old (paint) finish.

 

[djfam]

Re: Overcoating original paint - Aluminum 1973 Starcraft

Scrumbler - thanks for the info. You didn't say what painttype you used. Did you use a traditinal marine or another type like latex, enamel or rustoleum?