Surface prep?

[Adamk321]

I have a 17 foot aluminum bass boat and I want to re do the bottom. They guy before me just slapped a bunch of epoxy paint on it, obviously didn’t prep right as it’s bubbling and lots of oxidation underneath. I’m gonna start with a 5 in 1 and fine grit sand paper and see how it goes, are there any methods/products anyone recommends to get the aluminum to a bare paintable surface. I see star brite has aluminum cleaner/restorer and I’ve always liked their products. Any info is appreciated!

 

[airshot]

Paint stripper to start to remove all the paint, primer made for aluminum, then couple finnish coats. Need a good primer base for good results

 

[LDUBS]

Star Brite aluminum cleaner/restorer will not strip paint.

 

[airshot]

You might also consider a thorough cleaning of the inside of the hull bottom, then a coat of gluvit or other sealant to prevent leaks down the road......

 

[cyclops2]

Taking paint off of THIN Aluminum always panics me. .040" or .060" super thick soft aluminum. I have done 2 with very fine sand blasting. It knocked the crummy paints off & left a rough surface for primer.