See full version: Repainting an Aluminum Propeller
You can use an enamel paint for outdrives but unless you are going to do it right,the paint will be off after the first few uses.Doing it right will require quite a bit more work than most are willing to do to a prop.If you are interested post back.Charlie
Re: Repainting an Aluminum Propeller? [links]
I'm interested. I was considering painting the lower portion of my Mercruiser Alpha 1 Outdrive. The paint on the skeg had it out with a sandbar and lost.
An outboard motor is a type of engine and propeller system used on speed boats. An outboard motor's continued exposure to moisture and interference with debris while moving through the water can cause its paint to wear down and chip off. It is possible to repaint an outboard motor to restore its aesthetic value and in turn maintain its value. Repainting an outboard motor is not difficult, though each step should be completed carefully to avoid chipping or peeling in the new coat. more
Spray the entire motor with marine quality spray paint in the color of your choosing. Spray the paint lightly so that the primer coat can still be seen through the paint coat. If the motor is placed on its side, allow one side to dry before painting the other side. Each side should take two days to dry. more
Dish scrubber or rough-sided sponge
Like any good paint job, the best results come from careful preparation. Before you paint it, you will need to sand your propeller thoroughly down to bare metal. Also smooth out any pitting from corrosion and other surface defects. A sandpaper disk attached to a rubber face plate in an electric drill works well on the propeller blades and some areas of the hub. But you’ll still need to do some hand sanding to get around the roots of the blades and in between the blades. more
Sanded and ready for paint more
BEFORE – This propeller has seen some shallow water and needs refinished. Note the scrap of wood blocking the blade to take the spindle nut off.
After you’re done sanding, wear rubber gloves and wipe the propeller down liberally with acetone to remove all sanding debris and skin oil that came from your hands. From then on, don’t touch the propeller with your bare hands, always wear clean gloves. The slightest bit of moisture or oil can cause pin holes in the finish that can allow water underneath and sabotage your work. A scrap of wood that fits through the spline coupler makes a simple handle. more
Spray the entire motor with marine quality spray paint in the color of your choosing. Spray the paint lightly so that the primer coat can still be seen through the paint coat. If the motor is placed on its side, allow one side to dry before painting the other side. Each side should take two days to dry. [links]
Dish scrubber or rough-sided sponge
Clean the motor with warm, soapy water and a dish scrubber or rough-sided sponge. This will remove any debris left from the sandpaper and dirt and oil that may have accumulated on the motor over time. Rinse the soap off the motor with warm water and allow the entire motor to dry completely before moving on to the next step. more
Sand the entire motor again, but this time use 600-grit wet sandpaper. Rinse off the motor or wipe it with a wet cloth to remove any sanding debris. [links]
Sand the entire motor again using 400-grit wet sandpaper. This will smooth away any bumps or runs caused by the primer. Rinse the motor or wipe it down with a wet cloth to remove any sanding debris. [links]