A Comprehensive Step-by-step: Do My Outboard Repainting

After years of exposure to the elements, the finish on outboard motors can break down and degrade, leaving them looking chalky and dull. No amount of polishing can restore the shine. It might be time to consider repainting.

Refinishing

If your engine has reached the point where it needs a refresh, you have options. You can do it yourself-it's not that hard if you're willing to put in a little effort. All it takes is a weekend or two, some elbow grease, sandpaper, masking tape, solvent, factory touch-up paint, and a new decal kit.

Alternatively, you can hire a professional. Keep in mind, though, that this is not a cheap job. Since it's not the kind of work typically done by automotive or marine painting experts, it may cost more.

If you decide to do it yourself, the cost will be much lower, depending on the size of the engine and the materials used.

Fairings

The fairing is the first thing everyone sees, making it a good place to start. The rest of the engine is more durable since it's usually attached to your boat, which shields the transom from potential overspray. Avoid being one of those people who accidentally sprays the engine without protecting the boat!

Repairing the fairing is relatively easy. For a complete rebuild, start by removing it from the engine. Protect the exposed powerhead with a large plastic garbage bag, securing it carefully with a large elastic cord.

Decals can be removed quickly and easily using a heat gun or hair dryer. Heat the decals slowly, and use a razor paint scraper to peel them off completely.

A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Guide: Repainting Your Outboard Motor

CG C SERIES COLORFUL OBM ---- RED 15HP OUTBOARD MOTORCG C

Spraying Tips

Spray the enamel in a smooth, sweeping motion, maintaining the same distance between the spray can and the surface.

If not replacing the lower seal at the bottom of the front hood, use masking tape to protect it.

Release your finger from the spray button at the end of each sweep to avoid applying too much paint at the ends, which can cause uneven coating.

Apply several coats of paint to the fairing to ensure complete coverage and avoid a "hazy" or "foggy" appearance.

Once the colored coats have completely dried, you can leave them as is or apply a glossy clear coat for a brighter shine.

If installing a new lower seal, wait at least a day after painting to allow the paint to harden.

Applying Decals

Before applying decals, wet the surface with a cleaning solution in a spray bottle. This makes it easier to position the decals, adjust them without tearing, and remove any air bubbles underneath.

Carefully cut the decals to size and position them on the hood before applying them. Use masking tape to hold them in place, then peel and stick them on. The result will be a freshly restored fairing that will make you proud of your engine again!

The Rest

There are many nooks and crannies that need to be cleaned, sanded, and prepared for a flawless finish.

Start by thoroughly inspecting all areas of the engine. Remove all built-up grease, oil, dirt, and gunk. This will likely require a roll of paper towels and plenty of acetone.

After cleaning, use various tools to sand the paint off the entire midsection, fixture brackets, trim units, swivel brackets, steering arms, and lower units.

The outboard's midsection and power trim unit should be disassembled, sandblasted, sanded, and coated with zinc chromate primer. Once ready, apply a primer sealer and paint.

When finished, remove the masking tape, reinstall the struts and anodes, and your shiny outboard engine will be ready for years of use.

We all want to make our outboards last longer and save costs. Please drop us a line at CALON to chat with us and get the quote you need!