Tips on repainting an outdrive

[Capt. T]

I have an Alpha One drive that is 11 years old and could just use a general cleanup and repainting due to minor nicks and corrosion. <br /><br />My usual approach to anything metal and outside is a thorough wire brush cleaning followed by several light coats of Rustoleaum primer followed closely by several light color coats, again Rustoleaum. I've found that color coating before the primer is completely dry (say 90%) results in a very durable finish in other applications.<br /><br />Will this work with an outdrive or do I need to use special paint because of the electrolysis issue?<br /><br />Thanks in advance for any advice!

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: Tips on repainting an outdrive

First off you dont want to use any kind of wire brush on the alum outdrive.Sanding or chemical stripper will be best.The primer you use is the most important thing in the process.Most say to use zinc chromate.I have had much better luck with zinc phosphate.The difference to me was that the phosphate never peeled 1 bit and the chromate did.I have only used the mercury phantom black laquer as paint and have had great results.I have heard of people using things like rustoleum,engine enamel even oil based exterior house paint.Hope this helps you.Charlie

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: Tips on repainting an outdrive

By the way,my best results were in warm weather painting in the sun with the surface warmed up by sunlight.Charlie