Bottom Paint on Outboard

[BoatCrazy]

On my 17 center console, sits a 140 Suzuki, the lower part of the motor just above the skeg still sits in the water when the motor is raised.

Its the bubble cone on the lower unit. Of course, it leaves an unpleasant scum line and growth.

I was thinking of adding bottom paint to the part that sits in the water. I could dress it up not to look cheesy and add a boot stripe to match the rest of the boat...

Its only an idea, looking for feedback....

Thanks in advance.

 

[surprise]

You don't want to put standard bottom paint on there. The lower unit is aluminum, and bottom paint has copper in it, so that sets up a corrosive situation. You can use the same kind of antifoul that is used on outdrives, trilux in one brand that works, keep in mind you have to carefully prep and use a primer before using the antifoul on the lower unit, or the paint won't stay on there. I think there's a sticky on the engines,etc. forum that goes through how to paint an outdrive, that would be a good guide for you.

 

[BoatCrazy]

Thanks. There is anti fouling paint on there now. Didnt know if there was anything heavier to use ie bottom paint.

 

[stmbtwle]

As mentioned above you don't want to use copper-based paint. There are other types of bottom paint that are safe for aluminum. Read the documentation for the stuff before you buy.