"Paul Burridge" wrote in message
...
On Wed, 11 Feb 2004 13:50:00 GMT, "Martin"
wrote:


"Bill Turner" wrote in message
.. .
Does anyone have any suggestions for painting aluminum in a way that
will be tougher and longer-lasting than you get with the usual spray
can?

I have a small compressed air paint sprayer, and I'm wondering if
automotive paint might be good, or perhaps something else? Mainly
interested in black or shades of gray. What is the best primer for
aluminum?

--
Bill, W6WRT

I've gotten the best results by first washing with a strong detergent,
drying, and then using fine steel wool (0000 grade), wiping with a tack
cloth to pick up any steel wool and other dust, and then using a zinc
chromate primer.

Do youse guys in the US not have Hammerite paint? That's what we
mostly use here in Britain. It's top-notch stuff. Needs no priming or
special preparation at all; tough, durable, corrosion-resistant finish
suitable for exterior metalwork in all climates. Good range of colours
finishes and textures. And it's non-toxic. The only thing you need is
the special thinner (only for cleaning brushes or spray equipment -
not the application part).
--

It's available here. Their web page recommends use of their primer for
aluminum.