painting an aluminum boat...

[billyhallfan]

hey guys,

 

I just bought an aluminum project row boat for next to nothing, but it is in need of paint, or just getting the old paint off, am I ok to just sand off the old paint on the aluminum, or is there a better way to do it. I would like to paint it white, but right now it is algae ugly green and I don't want that color, plus the paint is chipping a little, any one know how to remove the paint?

[mothershipconnection]

I would assume you could just use a stripping compound. You paint it on, let it sit, and then easily scrape the old stuff off. I've never done this on a boat or other metal surface, though.

[Houlie24x]

I think it would probably be easier to use a 180 grit sandpaper or something like that and just remove all the paint that is chipping. Go over the rest of the paint and remove the clear coat and feather out the edges so you can't notice any layers when you put the new paint over it.

[billyhallfan]

thanks for the help guys, the stripping is some hard work, especially in a garage in this heat, thanks again.

[mothershipconnection]

If you use a chemical stripping compound, pull the boat out of the garage if at all possible. Otherwise, leave all doors open and run a fan.