etching metal

hi guys . have a question about new metal with no protection . iam working on a 1941 ford p/u bed . do i need to etch the metal before priming? if so what is the proper way to do it? thanx tom

 

Spray with etching primer once all rust is removed.

 

Either that or wipe down with muriatic acid cut 50% with water.

I vote the etching primer myself.

 

NEW metal right? you must use etch primer. I usually use 180 grit on a sander to scuff the surface before using 'metal-etch ' primer, then normal primer. dont leave the metal etch more than a couple of hours before priming. and if you are doing repairs on larger areas... always metal etch the bare steel around any bondo repairs, I always keep a spray can handy.

 

theres also Direct-to-Metal sandable epoxy primers u can spray on bare metal

 

Hey,

Be advised, some etching primers can't covered with plastic fillers without adverse reactions.

You can wash the panel with phosphoric acid (metal conditioner) after which is followed a lacquer thinner wash and a good urethane primer coat. Epoxy primers on the marker today don't contain the heavy metals that use to offer the protection you need in a primer, and thats why I'd go with a urethane based primer & top coat.


" Spending a nation into generational debt is not an act of compassion "

 

Etching primer is no substitute for a thorough treatment with phosphoric acid.

 

x3 on the Phosphoric Acid, some proprietory solutions also leave a residue on the surface which when neutralised leave a rust preventative film.

 

Ospho is the phosphoric acid I use under PPG DP epoxy primer. The Ospho treatment will give you some time to finish other areas before having to prime them.