How to Repaint a Jet Ski Trailer

It is important to maintain your Jet Ski trailer as well as your Jet Ski.

Although riding a Jet Ski is a compelling pastime for many enthusiasts, maintaining the Jet Ski’s trailer is an important but less compelling task. However, there will come a time when your Jet Ski trailer needs repainting to keep it free of rust and in good shape. You can have a professional paint your Jet Ski trailer, but you can save money by doing this task at home.

Things You'll Need

• Pressure washer
• Wire brush
• Fine-grit sandpaper
• Hose
• Galvanized, aluminum or all-purpose metal primer
• Polyurethane, oil alkyd or acrylic metal paint

Instructions

1. Inspect your trailer. A quick visual inspection will help you assess the state of your paint. Be vigilant for rust; you will need to address this issue thoroughly.

2. Eliminate dirt, grime and residue. Use a pressure washer or wire brush to scrub off any materials that may have accumulated on the trailer from your Jet Ski or the environment. This is essential, because such contaminants will interfere with the paint job. Be especially thorough if you use your Jet Ski or trailer in salt water.

3. Remove rust. Use the fine-grit sandpaper to scrape off and smooth out any spots that may have oxidized. Additionally, use the sandpaper to scrape off and smooth any loose paint.

4. Wash the trailer with the pressure washer. The sanding will leave residue, so wash it off with a pressure washer for thorough cleaning. Let the trailer dry before you begin painting.

5. Prime the trailer. Use a paintbrush to spread the primer on the metal and allow it to dry as per the manufacturer's instructions. The primer you use depends on your trailer's construction. Use a galvanized metal primer for galvanized metal or tin. An aluminum primer is best for galvanized steel, aluminum, copper and any other materials that do not contain iron. For regular steel and any other iron-containing metals, you can use an all-purpose metal primer.

6. Apply the paint. Use your brush to paint over the dried primer. The paint you use will differ based on your trailer's construction. The best choice is a polyurethane paint, because it provides a protective barrier from rust, in addition to glossy finish. Oil alkyd paint is an all-purpose coat that is effective on any metal for a durable enamel finish. Finally, acrylic paint works well if you want a stain resistant, washable, mildew-resistant layer of paint.

7. Allow the paint to dry for at least one week before you expose the trailer to water. If possible, let it dry at a temperature of 60 degrees Fahrenheit, weather permitting.

Tips & Warnings

• Address rust as soon as possible. Ignoring it will only let it spread, making your repainting job more extensive. Sand it off, prime it and paint it immediately.