Re-Painting Lower Unit - What to use?

[Jilah]

I bought my boat used this year and one of the things I would like to do is re-paint the lower unit on the outboard. The paint on the Skeg (I think that’s what its called the fin below the prop) has worn off and if I rub my hand across the metal is comes back chalky from the corrosion. The boat is trailered and everything is washed down with fresh water after every use so I am unsure if there is any danger of serious corrosion but I don’t like the idea of the lower unit being unfinished. <br /><br />What steps should I take to repaint the lower unit? I would need to remove the chalky build up on the metal first using sand paper or something then is there a marine grade primer and finish paint I should use? I am a first time boat owner so really could use some product recommendations from those who have done this before.<br /><br />Thanks!

 

[douglloyd]

Re: Re-Painting Lower Unit - What to use?

Sand it smooth, Grey Primer and Yamaha Color match spray paint. Then do it again when it wears off again, I do it once a year or if I drag it in the sand (oops!).

 

[jleus]

Re: Re-Painting Lower Unit - What to use?

The problem with aluminum is its lack of "tooth" when preped for paint, compared to other metals. I have had good luck in retaining the finish coat on aluminum (boats and engine parts) by priming with a acid etching or "self-etching" primer then a top coat. I know NAPA has a good product, my prefered brand. You will never get the quality finish on the motor that came from the factory out of a spray can of touch up paint. If you have the equipement to apply a catalysed paint thats a different story. I would use the self etching primer in both cases.