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Aluminum Engine Paint Preparation

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A beautifully painted car engine.

It is common for car lovers to repaint their aluminum engines before taking the car out for a dream cruise or for auction. To ensure the paint adheres correctly and looks as good as it can, properly preparing the engine for painting is essential.

  1. Strip the Paint

    • Remove all primers, paints, and corrosion by applying a paint stripper and rubbing with a fine sandpaper or aluminum wool.

    Acid Etch

    • Wash the aluminum using an acid etch to remove oil, light corrosion and to further roughen the surface.

    Rinse

    • Rinse off the acid etch thoroughly.

    Conversion Coating

    • Wash the surface with a conversion coating to prevent corrosion and enhance the adhesion of the primer.

    Rinse

    • Rinse the engine and allow it to completely dry.

    Prime the Aluminum

    • Prime the surface using a two-part epoxy primer following the manufacturer's instructions for further corrosion protection and to ensure the paint adheres.

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References

  • Photo Credit sand car engine image by Clarence Alford from Fotolia.com

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