Painting aluminum

[kross1]

Hello All
I removed the hardtop from my Bertram 28. It needed some repair and painting and filling old holes. I sanded the aluminum tower as it is petted and discolored. I would like to paint the aluminum. Does anybody know of a good self etching aluminum primer And paint. It is not in the cards to have the tower removed at this time. Also I would like something that can be rolled and brushed as for it is usually too windy to spray and I need to do this ASAP. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Kenny

[Amberjack]

Kenny--When I refinished the aluminum guard on Amberjack I used zinc chromate to provide the bond to the aluminum then primer over that. Mine came in a spray can produced by Moeller who might also produce a liquid version. It may be the same stuff used for the undercoat on new airplanes, at least it looks the same. Toxic stuff normally used for industrial use and to be handled with care.

[kross1]

Thank You i will look into that.

[Rawleigh]

Definitely shop in the airplane sites. Aluminum needs to be cleaned right before painting , just like with welding, as the oxides form quickly.