Marinette Boat Forum

As I begin my repainting project, I am removing hardware and realizing how many layers of paint are actually there. Has anyone used Aircraft Paint Stripper on their boats? From what I am reading this is the easiest way to remove paint from aluminum.

I have, and the reason it's call aircraft stripper is because it's used on aircraft, obviously, and airplanes are made out of the same thing as Marinettes. Bubbles the paint right off and leaves the aluminum clean as new.

Jim,

Question - given aluminum's propensity for self-creating a oxidation layer that will prevent paint from adhering properly, what would you recommend/advise for post treatment with the stripper?

Bill

You need to treat the aluminum with a prime containing acid that etches the surface, turning it unto something paint will adhere to. Lots of brands out there. Spray or roller it on, let it sits for X minutes, then hose it off. When dry, then on goes the epoxy barrier coats (at least two) followed by the anti-fouling.

Boy, am I glad I now trailer my boat!

Jeff

A short add to Jeff's good note: apply that barrier coat as quickly as possible. Not tomorrow -- but within a few hours.

Right! Soon as the water from the rinse is gone.

You have to watch the weather forecast and plan this move out carefully, starting early in the morning. Lots of fun!

Good luck.

Jeff

Have ordered a gallon from Advance Auto Parts with pu at one of their local store. Got a 20% discount. About 28.50. Will give you folks a follow up on ease of use/effectiveness.

Going to do transom this spring. Showing a lot of "need" in painting area. Will strip, rinse, etch, dry (wipe and leaf blower ), and then a coat (or 2 if daylight permits) of 2 part epoxy primer. Going to finish paint with 3 coats of Interlux Pacifica paint I have from previous year's painting.

Going to paint rest of bottom with another brand (undecided as of yet).

Bill

Want to add one note - while we all have fairly good advice for you (modestly speaking), you would do well to have a short chat with the Interlux tech people or get one of their how-to sheets. There's a fair amount of effort involved and getting it done correctly will save you work and money in the long run.

Using a leaf blower is a brilliant idea!

Jeff