Rupnow Klockwork and Jacob ladder projects

[Barnbikes]

So I decided to try and build these two projects. Being a sheet metal guy I cut them on a laser and will ream the holes on the mill.

My question is: The only aluminum drop material I had available to me was some stuff that was scratched up. So I sanded the parts but am curious what primer/paint I should use so it will stick to the parts? Have been told that paint will not stick to Aluminum well. Would have it powder coated but that is not in the budget.

Thanks,
Jon

 

[Ratshooter]

Well, the airplane guys seem to use zinc chromate primer. It was/is available in fizzle cans. Haven't seen any for awhile, but haven't looked for any either. Let us know what you find.

TC

 

[deverett]

Would an etch primer work?
Not sure, just asking because I will be needing to paint aluminium in the not too distant future - he says, hopefully.

Dave
The Emerald Isle

 

[Jasonb]

I always use etch primer on Aluminium

 

[Blogwitch]

As soon as the oxide skin on aluminium is scratched or cut, then a new oxide layer is formed within seconds.

Jason is perfectly correct in suggesting an etch primer, that is one of the few things that can etch into the oxide layer and form a good bond to allow paint to stick to it.

John

 

[Brian Rupnow]

Zinc chromate primer was the old method, and still works good if you can find it in spray cans. I'd love to see some pictures of your work.---Brian

 

[Barnbikes]

Not the best pictures but what I have at the moment.

I changed your ladder design to .125 aluminum walls and spacers to width for outside frame and center lift pieces.

Jon

 

[Barnbikes]

Probably going to make both hand cranked for now as all I have to power them is hot air engines and neither are powerful to run them.

 

[Brian Rupnow]

Looks good, Barnbikes. It will be interesting to see when you have everything reassembled.---Brian