Painting aluminum

[Rolland]

I am wanting to paint some engines I made but am having a difficult time getting the paint to stick on aluminum. I clean it with acetone first to degrease then spray a coat of paint, but it will chip off after drying. I have tried both oil and water base paints but I am starting to wonder if a special primer should be used as I know al does oxidize. :wall:
Any ideas ??

 

[ruzzie]

This work well
http://www.bunnings.com.au/dy-mark-350g-etch-metal-primer_p1580553

 

[bazmak]

Just going to say you need an etch acid based primer first

 

[Rolland]

Thanks I will see if I can find some here. shipping might be rather expensive from down under.

 

[Hopper]

Old painters' trick is to rub down the job with vinegar and allow to dry before painting. It etches into the surface and helps the paint stick.

 

[bazmak]

Acid etch primer should be readily available anywhere unless your ay the N,S poles

 

[BobsModels]

HI

I have been painting Al for many years. I use zinc chromate primer. The one I use is from NAPA #7222. Any auto supply store should have some type of Al primer.

Bob

 

[10K Pete]

Most paint and hardware stores here in the US have a product specifically
for preparing aluminum for primer/paint. Oddly enough it's called......

Alum-a-Prep

That's it. Been using it for decades on objects from ounces to tons.

Pete