Painting

[62cruiserinc]

Hello:

I just received a free 1962 Kiekhaefer Merc 700 outboard that I am trying to fully restore. The paint is faded and worn off in spots. I would like to sand off the paint and apply new primer and topcoat.

A lot of people say that the best primer to use is zinc chromate, but others say that it is very toxic for home use. West Marine sells a zinc chromate primer spray. Are there any safer alternatives that work well? I really don't want to use the wrong primer and then do the job over soon.

Also, what would be the best type of paint for the topcoat?

Thanks
Steve

 

[olsenk514]

Re: Painting

Steve,

Zinc Chromate will provide the best adhesion to aluminum and galvanized surfaces. The one drawback of this product is it's toxicity. Many stores will not even sell it to consumers any more due to it's harmful effects on the human body and the environment (If you do decide to use this, be sure to wear a good respirator and protective clothing). There are some alternatives to zinc chromate, one of which I used on my 12' aluminum boat. It is a self-etching primer that is sold by Napa. It adheres to aluminum very well, as long as the proper cleaning and prep is done.

Before spraying anything on the aluminum, it needs to be washed with a phosphoric acid solution. Napa sells this as well, i believe it's labeled "Aluminum Brightener." If I recall, it's about $6 a bottle. After the acid wash, the surface is ready to be primed and painted.

As far as paint, any paint will do really. If you have a spray gun setup, I would recommend a 2-part epoxy. Any automotive paint store should be able to help you with this. Epoxy will hold up the longest, especially if you use your motor in salt water.

Good Luck
Kevin