Clear Coating Bare Metal

[Ferrino]

I'm having my fan and fan shroud media-blasted and would ideally like to spray-can a clear coat to the bare metal (both because I like the "organic" look and am concerned that powder-coating could give problems with clearances for the alternator and fan blades).

I'm wondering what the best spray-can clear is for this application? I was looking at the VHT clear engine enamel. But then I recalled you can now get 2-part epoxy paints in a can - will these stick well to bare metal or do they need an epoxy primer? For example, this one by Eastwood.

[scottb]

I had mine clear powder-coated. More durable than paint...

[19-911-65]

If you have a mag fan/shroud, after blasting, it "may" open up and show a multitude of micro pits and casting issues.

Here is a coating that I have used on marine metals...works and looks nice!


POR 15 GLISTEN PC CLEAR COAT PINT KIT WITH HARDNER
by POR-15


GLISTEN PC is a High Gloss, Rock Hard, Water-clear topcoat designed for spray or brush application
Works on all metal surfaces, including highly polished aluminum and chrome surfaces
GLISTEN PC will not leave brushmarks, and will dry in less than one hour
It will never crack, chip, peel, or yellow, and is very flexible as well.
IDEAL USES: As a protective coating on aluminum wheels, chrome bumpers, marine railings, chrome

[Bob Kontak]

Whatever you do, do not use a one part rattle can of clear. It is not made for this application.

I like the above two recommendations.

Do some research on the Glisten PC as there was not info as to heat resiliency. Given marine application, it's gotta be tough stuff.

Nice thing is you can paint it with a Preval sprayer, if you are not set up to spray "big", and it will work and look fine. Plus you will have left over for other projects

Powder coating is sweet and it will not be affected by heat. However, some of the fancier applications (i.e., chrome) do not resist solvents like the regular colors. I do not know if clear is "sensitive". scottb may comment given his experience.

[911pcars]

Ceramic coating. Air or heat cure, e.g. Cerakote.

Sherwood
(no affiliation)

[Ferrino]

Thanks for all the suggestions. I've ended up ordering a product from KBS coatings as I was ordering a bunch of other stuff from them and it came with great reviews. Will let you know how it turns out when the parts come back from media-blasting. The product is called DiamondFinish Clear - see here.

[jpnovak]

Just be aware that Mg parts will likely still oxidize under a clear coating. This can make them look splotchy after a period of time.

You can try Gibbs polish or do some searching. Here is a good one I found.

Magnesium parts. Factory finish, refinishing and corrosion protection