How to Custom Paint an Outboard Motor
- 1). Cover any parts of the engine that you don't wish to paint with low-tack painter's tape. Cover the area entirely to protect it from drifting spray paint particles.
- 2). Sand the entire engine with 400 grit sandpaper. Sand the entire surface of the outboard engine to create some texture. This will allow the primer to sink into the ridges and adhere to the engine's surface.
- 3). Fill a bucket with 2 tablespoons of dishwashing soap and warm water. Clean the engine with soap and water. Scrub off oil, dirt, and grime with a scrub sponge. Rinse the engine with clean water.
- 4). Fill any scratches and dings with a two-part putty like Bondo. Fill the ding with the putty and spread across the surface of the engine to smooth. Allow the putty to dry. Sand the surface to remove any excess putty. Wipe away the sanding dust with a damp rag.
- 5). Spray primer in a thin even coat over the engine. Use a steady back and forth motion to apply the primer. Use a light coat to prevent drip marks. Go back over the same area multiple times until the entire surface is well-coated. Allow the primer to dry for 4 hours.
- 6). Sand the primed outboard engine with 400 grit sandpaper to smooth out any imperfections. Wipe away the sanding dust with a damp rag.
- 7). Apply a second coat of primer in the same way that you applied the first. Allow the primer to dry for 4 hours. Sand the engine with 400 grit sandpaper. Repeat this process until the surface of the engine is perfectly smooth and ready for paint.
- 8). Paint the outboard engine with spray paint. Choose a paint that is formulated for marine applications. Apply a light coat of paint so that you can see a little of the primer coat through the paint. Allow the paint to dry for 2 days.
- 9). Wet a piece of 600 grit sandpaper with clean water. Sand the painted engine to remove any imperfections in the paint job. Wipe clean.
- 10
Apply another light coat of paint. Allow the paint to dry and wet sand with 600 grit sandpaper. Repeat the process until all of the imperfections have been removed from the engine and the painted finish is flawless. - 11
Coat the engine with clear coat by spraying the entire surface with a thin spray of sealer. Allow the sealer to dry. Dip a piece of 1000 grit sandpaper in water. Buff the surface with the sandpaper. Apply an additional coat of sealer. - 12
Allow the outboard engine to cure for 7 to 10 days before handling.
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