Aluminum boat paint

[jewski]

We have a 1950's Lone Star Malibu aluminum run about. Has been stripped down to bare aluminum, leaks fixed, and ready for paint. My head is swimming trying to figure out what paint to use. - Boat will be used exclusively in fresh water. - Moored at a dock (in the water) all season and stored on land for winter/offseason. - Want to keep if economical! - Do not want to have to reapply each year. We are considering getting a lift for it. So would also appreciate suggestion if ex oh that route too.

 

[Ike-110722]

Painting aluminum is not as simple as cleaning and painting it. When properly prepared any good marine polyurethane or epoxy will work just fine, but the problem is the prep. If you don't do it right the paint will just peel off in a very short amount of time. read http://newboatbuilders.com/docs/aluminum.pdf It will give you an idea of what you need to do. Plus there are links to other sites about painting aluminum.

 

[Woodonglass]

This will be helpful as well...http://forums.iboats.com/forum/boat-...-pics?t=457159
I'd highly recommend the lift. Leaving an aluminum boat in the water all year long is not a good idea IMHO! Corrosion along with other issues will cause you a lot of problems along with your paint. The lift will quickly pay for itself