Body aluminum - sandblast and painting

[jonnykilo]

Hi all;

I have a pre-loved tailgate and winch space cover plate I intend to mount up on my S3. Rightly or wrongly, I sandblasted them this week at Blast-it here in Vic while working on a few other projects. Not having much experience on body work in general, or aluminium painting specifically, am looking for tips on the prep and paint process. I have heard alu is tough to get paint to bond to, and a tailgate is a spot where I am keen to have some resiliency to scratches and regular use. I have a rattle-can done up with matching paint by a local shop, and am ready to tackle the prep and paint. Do I need to pre-sand at a high grit to get a smother finish? Recommendations on primer, steps between paint coats?

Thanks in advance

JAK

[mepham55]

You’ll need to etch prime the aluminum first. You can find etch primer in spray cans at most stores now. If your having trouble finding some try a marine supply shop like Trotac they usually have etch primer as well.

Matt

[jonnykilo]

Thanks Matt. Always the man with the plan!