Etching Primer: What does it do and do I need it?

[N62350]

I am slowly ( VERY SLOWLY) restoring my 1959 Starcraft Speedqueen, and I am ready now to paint the bare aluminum interior. Do I have to use etching primer, or can I get away with regular filler primer? Does etching primer work on steel?

 

[69rrvert]

Re: Etching Primer: What does it do and do I need it?

When I sandblasted and repainted my aluminum boat 7 years ago, my paint guy recomended the self etching primer so that is what I used. I am not sure what it does, but ut still looks good as new today. Thanks, Steven

 

[archbuilder]

Re: Etching Primer: What does it do and do I need it?

If you don't use it the paint will peel off. It also works on steel, but it is always a good idea to give either metal some "tooth" with sand paper. If you don't use it on the aluminium, I promise you the paint will come right back off! Make sure you follow the directions, prep is the key to painting, good luck with your project!