Topic: painting questions...

[beks82]

hey guys getting ready for paint and wondering about a few things.  first, do people usually primer the engine prior to paint?  haven't seen anybody mention it and was wondering whether they didn't or it was a given....second question is whether or not the engine is clear coated.  haven't really seen anybody talk about this but was curious if i needed to clear the engine itself....
any input would be much appreciated.

[dave500]

i use vht engine enamel(universal aluminium) straight out of the spray can,it holds on great and seems impervious to petrolit was bead blasted which will help adhesion i guess,its three years old now and still looks the same.

[wildcatmahone]

Yes, bare aluminum always needs to be primed right after sanding with either self etching primer or 2 part epoxy primer. Aluminum forms and oxide on it's surface almost immediately after being exposed. Make sure to give it a tooth by sanding with some 220 grit paper before painting. A good 2 part ceramic urethane is more durable and will last long much longer than any rattlecan you will find.