Tohatsu TLDI Paint Model Yr 2008

[NSD]

Hi,

I have a 2008 Tohatsu 90 TLDI that has developed quite a bit of surface pitting/corrosion on the leg making the paint job look ugly. I would like to sort that out and then give the leg a re-spray so I was wondering if anyone could recommend a PPG color code number or do I stick with the cans from the dealer?

Should I be using an epoxy primer as sealer first and then using a PPG acrylic urethane top coat with hardner? Not sure if one then sprays a clear laquer on top?

I used the boat for 3 summer seasons leaving it saltwater (didn't put anti fouling on the leg), I cleaned the leg each time I went out and always changed the anodes when needed. At the end of each season the motor would be rinsed down so I'm quite surprised at the state of the factory pain/corrosion.

 

[pvanv]

Re: Tohatsu TLDI Paint Model Yr 2008

We use the Factory paint, in either spray cans, or in "nail polish" bottles. If primer is needed, do a proper 2-part etch, and then prime with a zinc chromate or zinc phosphate primer... or use a self-etching epoxy- or urethane-based primer.

Leaving the LU down all season can accelerate corrosion; best to tilt up at the end of the day. One should flush/rinse at the end of each day if possible.

 

[NSD]

Re: Tohatsu TLDI Paint Model Yr 2008

Thanks Paul.

The problem I had is that I kept my boat on a swinging mooring and as we were all quite close we were't allowed to keep our LU trailered up out of the water.

Can you recommend a self etch epoxy primer? As for the factory spray cans, do they need to be finished off with a clear laquer or something for added durability?

 

[pvanv]

Re: Tohatsu TLDI Paint Model Yr 2008

If you will be continuously immersed in salt water, you will have ongoing corrosion of any aluminum outboard. You can mitigate that to a degree if you maintain the aluminum with Viny-Lux? Primewash 353/354. It's a 2-part self-etching primer designed for use on properly prepared bare metal, to obtain the optimum adhesion of primers and finish paints. Viny-Lux? Primewash 353/354 dries very quickly to allow for fast overcoating.

The factory finish paint does not require a clear topcoat.

 

[NSD]

Re: Tohatsu TLDI Paint Model Yr 2008

I will check out that product as Interlux/Intl Paints and Coatings are far more readily available in Malta than PPG.

What you wrote makes perfect sense, and I suppose all outboard manufactuers like to tout their engines as being Saltwater approved, and special EDP coatings and multi-stage paint process, but perhaps they should advertise that part of their outboard a bit less in their marketing splurge! In my humble opionion as a customer, 3 months immersed in salt water each season and then a full rinse an flush shouldn't result in the deterioration of the outboard leg so quickly, when it's Saltwater approved and built from high grade marine aluminium.