painting some parts

[SiK FoX]

Not sure if this is the right thread to put this in, but whatever.
I have a gt40 upper and lower and an extra set of valve covers that i want to paint. I have zero knowledge on painting so i need some advice.
Is there certain paint i should be using for aluminum? primer? how many coatings?

 

[blown347]

I just use engine enamel. No primer. It looks fine, no peeling or anything. Just clean everything thoroughly with acetone first. If u want u can use a fine grit sand paper to rough the surface some too. (I don't)

 

[blown347]

Biggest thing with painting is patience. Take your time. Apply at least 3 or 4 coats, and there is engine clear coat you can use as well(another 2 or so coats) but make sure you let each coat dry sufficiently before going to the next one. I'm impatient so I use a heat gun to help speed up the process

 

[SiK FoX]

Awesome man. I appreciate it.
Can you sand blast aluminum? Or will it damage it?

 

[Mustangcwo]

If you want to blast the parts, use aluminum oxide or glass bead. For best results: blast, wipe down with acetone, shoot 3 to 4 coats of color and two coats of clearcoat. Clearcoat is easier to clean and will seal the colored paint. I shot my upper and lower 3 years ago and it still looks like new.

 

[SiK FoX]

Right on. I appreciate the help

 

[JustASix]

Since you'll be painting parts exposed to high heat I would recommend baking them. Yes, baking them sounds dumb and the ol lady might get a little mad about the house smelling of paint but in the long run you'll be suprised on how much it'll help. Bake whatever your painting for about 15-20 minutes on 200* F. Make sure to let the paint fully dry before doing so, otherwise you'll have a hell of a mess on your hands.

 

[blown347]

You can go to harbor freight and buy a heat gun for like 15 bucks and do the same thing if you'd rather not stick parts in an oven haha

 

[SiK FoX]

thanks for the advice guys. i still havent got around to buying paint yet haha