Ask the Expert Question-and-Answer Archive

by Ron Joseph

March, 2008

Metal Primer for Cars

Q: I am about to rust proof my 36 year old mrk2 ford (mercury) capri. What would be the best primer to use after I have taken it back to bear metal? I can get my hands on red oxide fairly cheap but was wondering what would be the most effective solution? After experiencing a few days under my car with a grinder I wish to never do this task again, also for the cars sake of course.

A: An inexpensive red oxide primer is not what you want. In my opinion I would apply an epoxy primer that contains a good rust inhibitive pigment. However, if you go for an epoxy primer, you must top coat it within one or two days. If you wait more than that, the top coat might not adhere and might peel off after a short period of time.

Regards,

Ron Joseph