Restoring cosmetic condition of motor?

Question

If I wanted to restore the paint job on an old outboard motor, what kind of paint would be best to use, and how should I prepare the surface before painting. Would I need to scrape all the old paint off? Thanks

Answer 1

Automotive paint is great to use, but it has to be sanded and primed with a zinc primer for aluminum on any exposed metal. If the original paint is in fairly good condition then scuff up the surface with 220 grit sandpaper or a scotchbrite pad and wash off, dry, then apply paint. Automotive enamels come in an endless array of colors if you want to do some customizing, or you could even find the original color match. I just painted a 1967 Johnson V-4 with an epoxy stainless silver and it looks really sweet. So, have fun and happy boating.

Answer 2

The above is a perfect answer but once your motor is pretty, keep an eye on it.  I leave mine ugly and beat up looking and it seems nobody wants to steal it.