Bob E Posted April 9, 2021 Report Posted April 9, 2021 @Prestonalton's post got me to thinking, I haven't seen a lot of discussion about paint and paint shops lately. I'd love to hear people's thoughts regarding the following: 1. Is IMRON still the gold standard for general aviation paint? My M20C was repainted with Imron in 1991 and still looks great (photo), even though it's been a ramp airplane in Ohio all that time. 2. What techniques have people found to be useful for preserving the paint as long as possible? For my aircraft, I've basically just degreased it, power washed it, and applied NuFinish twice a year. Just this year little flecks of aluminum are beginning to show through on the leading edges, which is why I'm thinking about repainting. 3. Has anyone had a shop paint everything other than the underside of their aircraft to save money? On my aircraft, the paint underneath the wings and fuselage still seems quite serviceable. 4. What experiences have people had getting their aircraft repainted? I'd especially like to hear about good experiences and recommendations about shops currently operating (for me east of the Rockies). And of course I'd love see the photos! 1
Rusty Pilot Posted April 9, 2021 Report Posted April 9, 2021 Just my opinion, but we love and keep our Mooneys a long time. You will look under your plane frequently for pre-flight, maintenance and annual inspections. I would paint the whole plane, Mine was painted 10 years ago, before i purchased it but I still love the paint. As a plane the bottom is visible in flight so i would paint the bottom. Also, it seems a good clean waxed plane with nice paint will go just a little faster. Good luck!
carusoam Posted April 9, 2021 Report Posted April 9, 2021 Leading edges often get touch ups... Many lower cost paint jobs leaving the factory, got color stripes added later on... 60s paint jobs made it to the 2010s living outdoors getting washed and waxed.... When did power washing become a good idea? Power washing can be like flying full speed into clouds and rain... take a look at the leading edges to see what high speed rain drops can do to paint... Since a full paint job costs as much as a car.... There are plenty of options for doing things in a stepwise fashion... Sooner or later... you are paying the full price... Similar to updating an instrument panel... doing it all at once is the lower cost option... PP thoughts only, my M20C lived outdoors... Best regards, -a- 1
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