How to Paint a Stainless Steel Exhaust
A stainless steel exhaust can be painted but there are many factors that should be taken into consideration before beginning the task. The surface of the exhaust must be prepared with an aesthetic primer because it is not for direct painting without this primer. Without the primer, the paint will not adhere and fade quickly.
How to Paint a Stainless Steel Exhaust
Materials Needed
- Trisodium phosphate cleanser
- Steel wool pad
- Garden hose
- Clean cloth
- Painter’s tape
- Galvanized metal etching spray primer
- Oil base spray paint
The exhaust should be completely cooled before beginning the painting process. Make sure the car is parked in an area that is shaded and not in direct sunlight.
Apply a trisodium phosphate cleanser to a steel wool pad. Clean the entire exhaust with the cleanser and pad. Use a garden hose to rinse the exhaust. Use a clean cloth to dry the exhaust and then allow it to dry for four hours.
Use painter’s tape to cover any areas that you do not want the paint to get on. Place a drop cloth beneath the exhaust. Place a drop cloth beneath the exhaust to protect the surface underneath.
Spray the exhaust with one coat of galvanized metal etching spray primer. You should have the can 8 inches away from the exhaust when applying the primer. Allow the primer to dry for seven hours.
Spray the exhaust with your choice of oil base spray paint. Make sure you hold the can 8 inches away from the exhaust when apply the spray paint. Allow the paint to dry for seven hours.