Painting Brushed aluminum

[psychowit]

Now I've asked on my local forums whether I can spray paint my Lian Li. Most guys said no it needs to be anodized or electro plated and what not. I want to do it myself though and with the things I've got planned anodizing is gonna cost me waaaaaay to much. I sprayed the inside of my case and it's perfect, no bubbles no chipping etc. Now my question is - Has anybody sprayed brushed Aluminum before (and the obviously...) WHAT HAPPENED?

[calumc]

Just give it a quick sand, prime and paint

[NightrainSrt4]

Just be careful with your sanding, because if you want it to still have that perfect brushed aluminum look to it your going to have to be really careful which direction you sand and what grade sandpaper you use.

[psychowit]

And if I want to get rid of the brushed grain?

[Tabspace]

if you want to get rid of the brushed look start with 220 sand paper to smooth the finish.

I would highly recommend if you dont sand,and want to keep the brushed look, to first wash the suface with vinegar to remove any mill oils and what not.

either way use an acid etch primer such as u-pol acid #8 http://www.tcpglobal.com/AutoBodyDepot/ItemDetail.aspx?ItemNo=UPO+741

you can check with your local automotive stores also. don't bother with paint stores and hardwares most likely they won't have it.

I've heard of people using just regular primer for metal. I don't trust it.
just depends on how long you want the finish to last i guess.

Hope this helps

[psychowit]

Helps allot thanks