Metal Primers

[mcs1056]

I'm headed toward my first photo-etch job, and wonder about metal primers.

First; Do I need one? I stopped by a mom-n-pop hobby store, looking for Tamiya Metal Primer. They had none. "Pop" said I didn't need it, and pointed me to Surface Primer. 

Second; If I do need metal primer, is Tamiya the way to go? I've read that Zero Paints doesn't stick, and that Mr Metal primer doesn't dry. Stynelrez is reviewed as a primer that LOOKS llike metal, but isn't made for use on metal.

Third; Am I making too much of this? Sometimes I fall into product traps (can you say, "Godhand Sanding Sponge?")

[sidcharles]

we all do that; "they're" counting on it.

i was looking for a pounce wheel and the Big A had a dozen styles/ options. one was around $18 for a set of three. Mico-Mark had the same set for $29. of course if you belong to the NMRA, they'll give you 10% off .....

but to your point: when i use photo etch, i always give the piece or entire fret a dusting with 400 or 600 grit sanding sponge (whichever is handy).

stick it on, and then prime. depending on its location, either Tamya rattle can or whatever color Stynylrez is going on the big part the detail is adhered.

i don't rough handle my models, and if something were to chip, i would simply touch it up with a brush.

[Ace-Garageguy]

I just use real automotive self-etching primer on everything metal.

Duplicolor or SEM or Transtar, usually green 'cause it looks like zinc chromate.

Big can will last about forever.

Make sure your metal is clean. Adhesion to bare metal can be iffy.

Wiping whatever it is with vinegar can sometimes enhance adhesion.

Scuff-sanding is good too.

Edited 10 hours ago by Ace-Garageguy
punctiliousness

[mcs1056]

Ooooh! I have a case of the SEM Self-Etching in the garage. Didn't even think of it. 

[peteski]

What kind of photo-etched parts are we talking about?  In automotive model hobbies photoetched parts are usually left in their bare metal state (things like grilles, scripts, emblems, steering wheel spokes, etc.)
I also recall that you dabble in model aircraft?  Is that what those parts are for?  Are those parts brass or stainless steel? What specific brands of paints will you be using?