Paint for outdrive

StefanSG

Well-Known Member
Joined
10 Feb 2021
Messages
271
Location
Gosport
Visit site
Hi I am overhauling a Volvo outdrive, going to strip it back to bare aluminium , can anyone recommend a diy finish ?
I have been recommended to use an Acid Etch two pack primer, in my previous (google) research a lot of people recommend zinc chromate primer but I understand that is toxic and carcinogenic..
And also recommended, is primer as above, then a hard antifoul (im finishing in Volvo white), something like International Trilux
so anyone got a recommendation for a combination that lasts ?
thanks in advance

StefanSG
 
Hi I am overhauling a Volvo outdrive, going to strip it back to bare aluminium , can anyone recommend a diy finish ?
I have been recommended to use an Acid Etch two pack primer, in my previous (google) research a lot of people recommend zinc chromate primer but I understand that is toxic and carcinogenic..
And also recommended, is primer as above, then a hard antifoul (im finishing in Volvo white), something like International Trilux
so anyone got a recommendation for a combination that lasts ?
thanks in advance

StefanSG
[/QUOTE
pop this on the MoBo forum ?
 
The 2 systems that seem to offer any solution to prop or outdrive fouling would be Velox or PropSpeed/PropOne. You need to decide which you will use as preparation for both or either is different.

International's Trilux is a similar formulation to Velox but Velox has more AF ingredients and appears to be more effective (and expensive). PropSpeed/PropOne are silicone based (if not identical). PropSpeed is the market leader for prop treatment with silicon systems. If you check the PropSpeed website, Propspeed Commercial | Foul-Release Coating for All Underwater Metals they have some impressive clients, and useful background information - which reflects they out market Velox Marlin Yacht Paint and PropOne Greencorp Marine | PropOne - No.1 Foul Release Propeller Coating For Propellers.

Last time I looked PropSpeed was considered to be or possibly might be (I don't recall the wording) carcinogenic (during removal?). I think you will find it difficult to source a product that is not carcinogenic, possibly carcinogenic or poisonous - and that works. Whatever you use correct PPE is essential and containing any dust will be required in most locations with public access.

PropSpeed is commonly only sold to professionals who then charge for application as well as product.

All three products ts will fail miserably if you do not follow application instructions meticulously - which is the reason PropSpeed sales are restricted to professionals. Velox (and Trilux) are conventional AF, they deter fouling's chemically. Silicone AF offer a surface to which fouling cannot adhere. All require some movement to work properly - if slime develops on your prop it appears to mask the intended chemical or surface effects.

I tested all three systems in Sydney (and other AF) during which I became an accredited applicator of PropOne. However my tests were for slower speed engines and vessels (for sail boats) than yours and my results are thus invalid.

As recommended I would post on the MoBo section of the forum, but keep a watching brief here - as there is expertise here that you might find of value.

Jonathan
 
Last edited:
It is really hard to get a suitable finish on an outdrive without access to some professional grade coatings. And if the coating is damaged, corrosion will follow fairly promptly.

I used to work as a VP marine engineer, and have tried all-sorts over the years.

Others may have better advice, but I would personally take it to a paint shop, tell them the use and get a really good quality etch primer, base and two-pack top coat professionally applied and baked on.
 
Top