So I have a question for you guys. The interior on my C180 is zinc chromated, along with the insides of the wings. I really like the utility interiors that a few if you have done, and would like to do the same with mine. But I like the zinc chromate as its great for fighting off corrosion. So my question is, can I just paint over top if it? Or is it best to get it down to bare metal and start from there?
Thanks in advance.

Paint over.
I'm doing another one currently. Painting over it too. No problems with any yet.

I guess my photo didn't work. oops.

A1Skinner wrote:So I have a question for you guys. The interior on my C180 is zinc chromated, along with the insides of the wings. I really like the utility interiors that a few if you have done, and would like to do the same with mine. But I like the zinc chromate as its great for fighting off corrosion. So my question is, can I just paint over top if it? Or is it best to get it down to bare metal and start from there?
Thanks in advance.

It depends. Is the zinc chromate coating in the interior in good shape? Or is it failing in places?

If it's well stuck, paint over it.....it is, after all a primer. Clean it first.

If, on the other hand the stuff is starting to flake off, you'd be wasting good paint to top coat a failing finish.

My experience is that on many of the early Cessnas, especially the ones with float kits, the chromate is well stuck, and stays in good shape for decades.

MTV

Thanks for the replies. It's a 62 model with factory float kit Mike.
Where I can see it is is in great shape. This brings me to my next question. There is crappy old insulation glued to it. Can I just pull the old insulation off, glue new stuff on and paint the gaps? I know it would be a lot of work taping the new insulation and such, but I think that removing the old glue would result in removing a bunch of the chromate. Kind of a bugger either way... I'm not looking to do it cheap and easy, I want to do it right. I really just hate to remove the chromate if I can avoid it.

If you use the 3M adhesive remover...


...and use the white colored Scotch Brite Doodlebug pad...


...you'll leave the chromate mostly untouched.

Any damaged primer can be easily touched up prior to top coat. If you're planning to use a paint like Imron at least a little bit of urethane compatible primer might be a good idea to maximize your chances of maximum adhesion.

Good luck!

You should check with your paint supplier to make sure your new paint is compatible with the old zinc chromate. I think enamel is but it may not serve you well. Some zinc chromates you can apply an epoxy primer sealer coat over then use a urethane paint. It does pay to do a small test area first if there's any doubt. A guy can end up with an expensive waste of paint in a hurry if not careful.

Sorry if you know this stuff already. I am learning more about it but certainly no expert.

Thanks Halestorm. That's great info!
GB, I know next to nothing when it comes to paint, hence the questions. Thanks for taking the time to explain to a rookie!

Degrease areas to be painted, scuff with a red scotchbrite pad, feather sand chipped areas with 320 dry paper, blow, wipe, tape, tac, spray 1 coat of epoxy primer, let flash for at least an hour then paint with your choice of paint, I like urethane. Sounds simple but takes many hours of labor, end result, WORTH ALL THE TROUBLE.