SO I bought a Gunslinger tree climber. If you know about them, you know they do not come painted. Just bright shiny aluminum. Is there a way to etch the aluminum before painting to make spray paint stick? I read a few articles and some suggested vinegar, others suggested muriatic acid. Some also suggested self-etching primer
Any suggestions?
I believe some one sells a primer that will etch aluminum. A buddy of mine did this once, but I did not see the process, or results.
From painting aluminum boats you all ways use a self etching primer even if you sand blast it.
Walmart sells a Rustoleum self etching primer for about $5 a can. I have used it on aluminum a lot and it works great.
http://www.walmart.com/ip/Rust-Oleum-Self-Etching-Primer/16816075
Go to an automotive paint store and get some SEM self-etch primer. Comes in a spray can if you don't have a sprayer. Scuff up the aluminum with a 180 grit sandpaper and clean it well with acetone or laquer thinner, use a tack cloth if you're concerned about the finish. Spray on a couple of thin coats, 5-10 minutes between coats. You just want to hide the bare metal, not build up the primer. If you put on too thick, it doesn't dry and harden properly and is easily scratched back down to the metal or the paint ends up lifting. Also need to let it dry per directions before top coating.
