Question re: Metal barrels

[DaneBramage]

What is the best way to get a good coat of paint to stick and stay on the aluminum tank cannon barrel without gunking it up with thick primer etc. I have heard that Soaking in a mild acid like white vinegar is very useful. I'll open the thread for ideas!! Thanks!! I rarely post here but I hit this site every day!

DaneBramage aka Dane Bramage

[Paul-H]

Hi

A good quality Automotive primer should do the trick, mind I have vever had any bonding issues using model primer (I use Velejo), just make sure its clean and all maching and finger oils are removed.

If you still have problems then an etch type primer would help.

Paul

[gordy]

Out of curiosity, has anyone ever anodized an aluminum barrel ?

[schlichtr]

I used a gun bluing product on a RB FlaK 43 barrel just to see how it worked. Turned out great on both the Alum and Brass pieces. Then I tried it again on a Tamiya KwK 30 barrel (from their upgraded Sd.Kfz. 222) and it didn't turn out as well. I think I will continue to experiement though.

Roy

[alexwencho]

Good Luck in whatever choice you chose to paint the metal barrel.

[DaneBramage]

Is that Tamiya metal primer any good?

[ShotMagnet]

Has anyone tried Blacken-it?

Seemed to me that since it would work nicely as a basis for priming, but I've never tried it.


Shot

[Pvt Mutt]

I tried it and no joy for me.:confused:

Tony lee:)

[Holeshot]

For aluminum barrels, you need to get a can of "etchant primer" spray paint from a car parts store. It's specifically designed for priming aluminum parts. It has a chemical in it that etches the metal and creates a better mechanical bond between the paint and the metal than just paint alone would. You can paint over that just like any other primer.

Like Paul said, make sure all fingerprints and oils are removed from it; while you're at the car parts store pick up a can of "paint prep" too. You spray that on and wipe it off with a clean cloth and let it dry (it evaporates pretty quickly) and you should be good to go with the primer.

Good luck,
Curtis

[ranchhand]

I do a light sand on the barrel, seems to work the trick!
some others in my club have recommended krylon primers, but after i started doing the light sanding paint would stick fine.