What's your epoxy primer knowledge?

[DynoDave]

What's your epoxy primer knowledge?

I thought some of you might enjoy reading this. The data is pulled from a Toyota collision repair information bulletin, but is relevant to any of us doing our own body work. Just some food for thought.

SearchAutoParts

[Norwegian]

Hi, as a wholesaler for Sikkens and Lesonal Car paint in Norway I will share my opinion on this. Our Road Department use tons of Salt on our winter roads so we do have the same problem as you I guess.
In general Epoxy primer is our No. 1 primer product, we also recommend it as the only primer under plastic putty as they bond perfect. So:
1) Bare metal, blasted or sanded - Ep-primer - Top Coat.
2) Or, bare metal, blasted or sanded - Ep-primer - putty - Ep-primer - Top coat. Done!
This build up is near 100% waterproof and protect the metal in the best way possible.

A surfaced/filler do not stop water at all and can also absorb water for weeks? untill dried out. Not my favourite solution but can be used if needed, but only if you have an EP-primer underneath to protect the metal from being exposed to moist or water. It is easy sandable and very comfortabel to work with and a good helper to obtain the best finish.

3) But if you still have some tiny spots with rust that you are not able to remove, you should use an Acid or Etch primes as it contains active chemicals that will for some time fight the rust from developing, but in the end the rust will winn!

WARNING 1 : Acid/Etch primers and Epoxy primers must not be combined as a chemical reaction can produce salts and create rust. Please do not ask me why! it is according to the producers and I believe they know their products. WARNING 2 : Please also remember that most sealants are not 100% waterproof(!), they need a good primer first like an Ep-primer before you apply the sealant.

This is my view and knowledge after 35 years in Car Paints and it have proved to do the job, but I will respect and listen if others see this different or have new information, that is the way I learn.

Ketil ( Norway )
1974 Dodge Charger Rallye

[DynoDave]

Thanks for that info., Ketil. Always good to hear from someone with some experience in these matters.