Painting Aluminum

[Henry Petit]

What steps do you take to prep aluminum for painting?
what paint do you use? and how do you thin it down for spraying?
Thanks for the help.

[jdb]

Use a zinc chromate primer, after that it does not matter what type of paint, your specific use will dictate paint type. Thin according to manufacture's specs.

[Si Allen]

Thyere are many new etching primers for aluminum. Check with your local paint store for types and applications.

[Henry Petit]

Great, thanks!

[Signguyno1]

Thyere are many new etching primers for aluminum. Check with your local paint store for types and applications.

I agree with Si, the new self etching primers are great and are available through auto body paint suppliers in quarts, gallons and aerosol spray cans. I have been using them for many years from Sherwin Williams. Swear by them, but then again I swear often.:thumb:

[craigco]

I was told and used the etching primer from an auto parts store. It worked great. But First you must wipe down the aluminum with something, I can't remember if it was denatured alcohol, or mineral spirits or what. Maybe someone else can shed some light on this.

[Signguyno1]

I was told and used the etching primer from an auto parts store. It worked great. But First you must wipe down the aluminum with something, I can't remember if it was denatured alcohol, or mineral spirits or what. Maybe someone else can shed some light on this.

Denatured alcohol will work, stay away from mineral spirits as it will leave a film.

Best to use what the professional auto body shops use, prepsol, a wax and silicone remover available from auto paint suppliers or Gone, available from professional full service sign supply suppliers. Always sand first with a scotch pad.