Painting stanchion bases, advice?

[johnnyandjebus]

Hello all

I am in the process of re-bedding all of my deck hardware and would like to re-paint my stanchion bases(aluminum). Any recommendations for DIY'er?
- Type of paint
- Prepping
etc

Thanks,
John

[SloopJonB]

Normal pre-paint prep - sanding, cleaning etc.

Very quickly after the last pass of abrasives, spray with zinc chromate to provide a seal and bonding surface for the topcoats. This is essential as it is the only thing I know of that sticks to aluminium. It is the chartreuse coloured stuff you see on aircraft internal surfaces and on Whale gusher aluminium pumps. This step must be done right away as aluminium oxidizes extremely quickly.

Paint as per usual when the zinc chromate is dry.

[johnnyandjebus]

Thanks Jon

Is zinc chromate readily available? I'll have to do a google search.

John

[mike dryver]

yes it is go to an outboard dealer ask for a can or how ever many you need, but remember like sloopjohnb said make sure you prep properly. after that stuff will last a long long time. i redid my 125 all external surfaces and inside of the housing and after 18 yrs still looks like the day it was put on. even if you scratch down to the alum. it will not oxidize under the chromate

[shogan50]

Also found here: PTI SPECIALTY PAINTS
ZINC CHROMATE PRIMER from Aircraft Spruce

[WDS123]

Be obsessed with prep - especially with keeping surface clean prior to prime coat, even handling with bare hands ( oil ) can prevent primers from adhering to ALU.