Paint for a '63 rude

[cjones4@hvc.rr.com]

Now that I've accepted the fact that I won't be buying a new E-tec this year, I would like to spruce up my 1963 75HP Starflite. Yesterday I did a tuneup, lower unit oil and test ran. She's ready to fish. But with 2 or 3 weeks before the marina is ready for me I still have time to paint it. Problem is I can't find outboard motor paint in the original color (seal gray). I checked iboats mega mall and several other places including my local dealer with no luck. So... does any one know a source for the paint, and if not do you think it is ok to find the closest color match I can find at Home Depot or Auto Zone even though those paints are'nt for outboards? Or maybe use one of those paints and then top it off with outboard clear coat?

 

[JB]

Re: Paint for a '63 rude

Moving to General Outboard

 

[JasonB]

Re: Paint for a '63 rude

I had the same problem matching teh color on my '76 Johnson. I scuffed the existing finish with some sandpaper, shot sone standard metal primer over it, then sprayed it with a rustoleum color (anodized bronze). I used 2-3 coats of color and since it was a semi gloss paint, I sprayed another 2-3 coats of clear. Looks great 3 years later. My boat is trailered though.<br /><br />I used some outdrive paint on my sterndrive boat 1 year ago and it looks horrible now. Go figure...

 

[Paul Moir]

Re: Paint for a '63 rude

Source for matching paint. <br /><br />EDIT: I just noticed Seal Gray wasn't listed there as available.

 

[Chinewalker]

Re: Paint for a '63 rude

I generally match it up close as possible with an automotive color and spray it with an acrylic lacquer. Depends on whether you want to do a restoration or rejuvination. If the original paint is really bad, scand it down, prime it and paint it. If the original finish is just faded, but otherwise not corroded/bubbled/etc. then scuff the original paint and paint it...<br />- Scott

 

[cjones4@hvc.rr.com]

Re: Paint for a '63 rude

Thanks for the replies. Now I have some confidence that rustoleum or auto paint will work out ok. Now to find a match... <br /><br /> Paul, thanks for the link. At least it confirms that I was looking for the right color - Seal Gray. Too bad they don't carry it.