? about painting my outdrive

[rharshbarger]

I've got a Mercruiser sterndrive. Lower unit needs re-painting. I know about starting with Alumaprep, then Alodine... my question is after that am I ok to use a spray can of Quick Silver Mercruiser phantom black spray paint? Will it stay on? Thanks.

 

[45Auto]

Re: ? about painting my outdrive

If you're going to use a spray can don't waste your time and money with all the other prep. The spray can paint will stay on for a while, but it'll be no where near the equivelent of a professional 2 part paint. If you want it to last you need to use some kind of 2 part paint with a separate hardener.

If you'll be happy with the spray can results, just sand any rough spots and hit it with the spray can whenever it needs it.

If you want it to look factory, go here and follow the directions on "factory authorized repainting procedure" for an outdrive. Buying the smallest quantities possible of paint, alodine, etc, will set you back about $200, but you'll have enough to easily do 3 or 4 outdrives.

http://www.mercuryracing.com/techcorners/mercruiserfaqs.php#tech_11

 

[kilowatts]

Re: ? about painting my outdrive

Hi Guys:
Here's how I've done more than one outdrive with very good results:
(i) Sand any corrosion down to clean bare metal.
(ii) Scuff up the original factory paint.
(iii) Clean with degreaser.
(iv) Clean with 50% white vinegar and water.
(v) Blow dry.
(vi) Apply a thin coat of spray can zinc chromate to entire drive.
(vii) Shoot 2 coats of spray can Rustoleum gloss black, light sanding between coats optional. I takes longer to dry than the Mercruiser product but in my opinion is superior.

I've had very good results with this method and yes it does stay on. I hope this helps.
kilowatts

 

[rharshbarger]

Re: ? about painting my outdrive

Hi Guys:
Here's how I've done more than one outdrive with very good results:
(i) Sand any corrosion down to clean bare metal.
(ii) Scuff up the original factory paint.
(iii) Clean with degreaser.
(iv) Clean with 50% white vinegar and water.
(v) Blow dry.
(vi) Apply a thin coat of spray can zinc chromate to entire drive.
(vii) Shoot 2 coats of spray can Rustoleum gloss black, light sanding between coats optional. I takes longer to dry than the Mercruiser product but in my opinion is superior.

I've had very good results with this method and yes it does stay on. I hope this helps.
kilowatts

thanks for the instructions, just finished and it looks great.