Metal and Rivet prep for paint question?

[MichaelFarley56]

Hello Everyone,

Later this spring I’m planning on painting my Waiex with a single stage polyurethane to protect the aluminum from corrosion I’m finding.

For those who have painted their airplanes, I’m curious what you all have done to prep the aluminum for paint. I have a plan for the aluminum in general, but I thought I’d ask everyone how they dealt with the domed rivets. Is there some sort of tool to scuff up domed rivets for paint?

I’m just getting things ready for a spring warmup in weather so I can get this little project moving!

Thanks!

[Bryan Cotton]

Mike,
I have no intention of going to the dark side myself, but this may work:
https://www.aircraftspruce.com/catalog/ ... key=112516

I think I used some of it on a C140 restoration. Was a long time ago though. I think I used it on faying surfaces during reassembly and maybe steel parts.

PreKote© can be used on a wide range of surfaces including aluminum, steel, magnesium, titanium, CRES, galvanized, composite and plastic surfaces.

For prep you spray it on, scrub with a scotch brite pad, then rinse off.
https://www.aircraftspruce.com/catalog/ ... -01503.php

[MichaelFarley56]

Thanks Bryan! I’m planning on using that exact same product. Everyone I’ve talked to who has used that has been very happy with the results!

Thanks!!

[daleandee]

Thanks Bryan! I’m planning on using that exact same product. Everyone I’ve talked to who has used that has been very happy with the results!

Thanks!!

That's what I used many moons ago. Read the directions carefully as IIRC they warn that you must rinse it completely and not allow the product to dry on the surface.

[sonex892.]

After polishing with nuvite for 9 years painted mine 3 years ago. I first destroyed the polish with soapy water and 1200 grit wet or dry then again with soapy water and scouring pads while rinsing a lot.

After that alodined, rinsed. Prior to painting cleaned with a mixture of methylated spirit and water. Used an automotive 2 pac undercoat and paint.

I also dismantled the plane. Completely removing the wings and tail and flying surfaces etc. I also made a rotisere for the wing which made it relatively easy to paint both sides top and bottom during the same session.
Steve