Cleaning to repaint my CD-18

[Sportwinjoel]

Hey folks,

I have a read a few threads on this subject but I wanted some more in put based on my project.

I have alot of built up grease in places and what is a a good cleaner along with elbow grease to use?

This motor is a 1961 CD-18 5.5 Johnson. It was originally white and it has chips and alot of fade. I would like to freshen it up w\o a total tear down. Is that doable?

Anyway any insight is appreciated. I found decals thanks to some help, I also have rubber coming for the cowling etc.

Thanks in advance,
Best regards,
Sportwin Joel

 

[samo_ott]

Re: Cleaning to repaint my CD-18

Go to nymarine.ca and read up there. It covers all those questions.

 

[kfa4303]

Re: Cleaning to repaint my CD-18

hi joel. I'm in the middle of painting my motor too. I've found that O'Reilly's brand ENGINE DEGREASER works great. It's cheap ($3), comes in a big can, and has a pretty strong stream which is good at balsting off the goop. If you let it sit for a while it works even better and you can rinse it off with water. A couple of good wire brushes helped too. I got a 6 pack at Harbor Freight for about $4. But, like you said, good 'ol elbow grease is the best and cheapest. A 50/50 mix of water and white vinegar is a great mild degrease too. Keep us posted...

 

[jmendoza]

Re: Cleaning to repaint my CD-18

I used a combo of Gunk spray engine degreaser, followed by Castrol Super Clean, and a final wipe down (after sanding and rinsing with water) of mineral spirits/paint thinner. Let it dry for a day before attempting to mask and spray.

 

[James R]

Re: Cleaning to repaint my CD-18

If you plan to replace decals remove the old ones. A little heat and a scraper will do the job. 220 grit wet/dry with water will remove most bad paint and edges. Use a wood block to support the wet/dry. That will help fine any paint edges down. Final sand with 500 grit and then clean with alcohol and mask. Make sure the edges are sealed down good. If you have some small holes to fill then try JB weld. It works very well. You may need to use a file to knock the high spots off before 220 grit.
I have been using Rustoleum self etching primer for aluminum and fiberglass.
Light rub down with 1200 grit and final clean with alcohol.
Spray a light coat of top coat and allow to dry completely to seal the primer then apply a second coat a little heavier. Use however many coats necessary to get a good cover. Light coats are best to avoid runs. Final coat will need to be a little heavy to bring up the gloss.
I use manufacturers paints always and get good results.

 

[1946Zephyr]

Re: Cleaning to repaint my CD-18

1961 Johnson 5.5, huh? The Johnson White, should be readily available at your local marine supply dealer. If not, then try nymarine.

For cleaning, I just used a can of gas and a parts cleaning brush. To remove the fuel residue afterwards, I would use brake cleaner.

 

[jbjennings]

Re: Cleaning to repaint my CD-18

SInce you're going to repaint anyway, Westley's bleach-white (tire cleaner) works super well for me. Just keep in mind that it will fade your paint. Don't sand through to the aluminum unless you absolutely have to. Waiting for an above 70 degree day and low humidity is worth it.
Merry Christmas,
JBJ