Painting Al for Marine use???

[MetalMan14]

Hello everyone,

My buddy and I are having fun with a little project, (building a mini-race boat). We are building the hull out of aluminum and want a sweet paint job on it. My questions are this.
1.) Will paint hold up on Al in a marine environment?
2.) I know we need to clean the surface really well, but can you recommend any methods or products?
3.) As far as bumps and scraps are concerned, is there any difference between what I would consider a regular paint job vs. a powder coat?
4.) I guess in general, can you think of anything I haven't mentioned that I should know?

Thanks for any help you can offer!

Jeff

 

[metengr]

Metalman14;
For those of us that wish we had a large speed boat;

1. Prepare the aluminum hull by LIGHT sanding, use fine
grit paper.

2. Apply one coat of acid etch primer for use on aluminium. You can purchase this at any marine supply store.

3. Apply one coat of either a polyurethane or enamel paint.

My choice is candy apple red with white racing stripes.