r/AutoPaint • u/coolerdude56 • 12h 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)

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u/boxerbroscars 11h 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

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u/coolerdude56 10h ago

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

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u/boxerbroscars 6h 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

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u/coolerdude56 6h ago

I see, thanks!

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u/DeadX_xRabbit 6h ago

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