The Rover-Landers of BC

Hi all;

I have a pre-loved tailgate and winch space cover plate I intend to mount up on my S3. Rightly or wrongly, I sandblasted them this week at Blast-it here in Vic while working on a few other projects. Not having much experience on body work in general, or aluminium painting specifically, am looking for tips on the prep and paint process. I have heard alu is tough to get paint to bond to, and a tailgate is a spot where I am keen to have some resiliency to scratches and regular use. I have a rattle-can done up with matching paint by a local shop, and am ready to tackle the prep and paint. Do I need to pre-sand at a high grit to get a smother finish? Recommendations on primer, steps between paint coats?

Thanks in advance

JAK

You’ll need to etch prime the aluminum first. You can find etch primer in spray cans at most stores now. If your having trouble finding some try a marine supply shop like Trotac they usually have etch primer as well.

Matt

Thanks Matt. Always the man with the plan!