- Joined
- Jan 9, 2023
- Messages
- 239
Alodine is the gold standard for aluminum prep but, as pointed out, it's nasty stuff. I've painted planes with and without it during prep and I'm not sure if I'll ever know if it made a difference since the paint jobs will probably outlast me. I know when I worked on big planes they used an acid etch and then alodine before priming. For a shop tool, I think you'll be good with a primer designed for aluminum. My guess would be that it's of the self etching variety. I would probably just powdercoat it. Post some pics, I'd love to see it!