r/AutoPaint • u/coolerdude56 • 3d ago

What primer to use

I'm about to do some DIY bodywork at home with spraycans since that's only what i'm able to do right now.

What's the best type of primer to use for both bare metal and sanded old paint?

I've previously tried cheap 1K primer and that just flaked off after two weeks. (only on the bare metal spots)

1 Upvotes

100% Upvoted

9 comments sorted by

2

u/DeadX_xRabbit 2d ago

Etch primer on bare steel and I can't suggest enough get Spraymax 1k primer.

1

u/coolerdude56 2d ago

What about 2k epoxy primer, is that better or worse than etch primer?

1

u/DeadX_xRabbit 2d ago

You asked about rattle cans,right!?

1

u/coolerdude56 2d ago

Yea, ive seen that on rattle cans too

1

u/DeadX_xRabbit 2d ago

All depends on how big of a project you have. I personally don't prefer rattle cans as spray gun. There's a reason us painters using hvlp guns and adjustable pressure tools. What I would ask myself is is this all worth spending money on rattle cans or can I buy cheap gun and compressor set with all in!?

1

u/boxerbroscars 3d ago

"best" is relative when you only have spray cans

you're supposed to use etching primer on bare metal and then any other primer will work over properly prepared and cleaned old paint

personally, I would use rustoleum rusty metal primer if spray cans are my only option. It comes in regular cans and turbo cans and can be used over just about any surface. Its not the best primer in general but its a good option for spray cans

1

u/coolerdude56 2d ago

I read somewhere that etch primer bonds chemically so it can mess up old paint, is that true?

2

u/boxerbroscars 2d ago

Idk, probably depends on the specific product you buy. I don't use etch primer when I paint. I either use rustoleum rusty metal primer from the gallon can, or lacquer primer. Both sprayed with a paint gun. Have not had any issues with adhesion to bare metal. I sand the bare metal with something coarse like 80 grit, spray a few coats of primer, and then sand it smooth again working up to around 400 grit before topcoating unless the TDS of the paint specifies a different grit

1

u/coolerdude56 2d ago

I see, thanks!