Pontoon boat sides paint

[Woodland Artisan]

I'm wanting to paint the metal rail sides/panels of the pontoon boat.  What prep and paint should be used?  I don't have much to do as the only ones left on the boat are the back ones around the gas and battery areas.

[fishinwrench]

@Flysmallie is the guy you need to listen to about that.

[Flysmallie]

On 3/15/2021 at 7:10 AM, Woodland Artisan said:

I'm wanting to paint the metal rail sides/panels of the pontoon boat.  What prep and paint should be used?  I don't have much to do as the only ones left on the boat are the back ones around the gas and battery areas.

What condition are they in now? Are they painted currently?

[Woodland Artisan]

Yes, original paint from '95.  It's a tracker Fishin Barge 21'.  Normal wear and tear. Not too bad.  I just want to go with a different color to match what the side rails are going to be (fabric).

[Flysmallie]

If it has paint in it you just need to clean it really well, scuff up the surface, clean again, and then you can topcoat it. I would still use a good primer on it and any spots or pieces that are bare metal will need a primer designed for bare metal. And you will also need to clean and scuff those areas as well. 
 

The key is getting the surface really clean and smooth. And using a primer to make everything a uniform color and give the paint a nice base to adhere to. 

[Terrierman]

To do it right, what Flysmallie said - and then shoot automotive lacquer followed with a clear coat.

[Woodland Artisan]

4 hours ago, Terrierman said:

To do it right, what Flysmallie said - and then shoot automotive lacquer followed with a clear coat.

Not a problem.  I do that with some of my woodworking pieces.  Thanks.

[Flysmallie]

8 hours ago, Terrierman said:

To do it right, what Flysmallie said - and then shoot automotive lacquer followed with a clear coat.

Lacquer? What century are you from? 
 

It’s been a minute since we have had lacquer readily available in the automotive industry. But if you go with an automotive coating they are more durable and easier to deal with these days. 

[MrGiggles]

If the original paint is still stuck pretty good, just sand it, take any scratches down to bare metal.

Epoxy primer will stick like crazy to just about anything, but you can't hardly sand it, best to go wet on wet if you use it.

This place is over by Monett, fast shipping and good prices. A gallon single stage kit should work well for you. If you are not very picky about colors, equipment paint from TSC can work pretty well, make sure you use hardener, makes a big difference.

https://allkandys.com/shop/