Priming PE / metal parts

[klutz_100]

What do you guys use for priming PE and metal for painting that isn't a branded metal primer (Tamiya, Gunze etc) which I can't get here. :headbang:

I'm looking for some household "alternatives" here

Thanks in advance

PS I did try the search button, unsuccessfully

[mickbench]

Automotive Primer? I use this for all my priming, as you cannot get any tamiya primers in the UK, and anyhow, I can get automotive primer for a few quid a can, whereas I bet Tamiya would be twice this for half the amount

[RallyRaider]

Any kind of automotive 'etch' primer should do the trick. I use Duplicolor.

[lotus_man]

Etch primer for big bits that need to be tough, standard laquer (Halfords) for smaller parts. The main trick is to get the metal VERY clean befor laying on paint. Try scuffing it with 1200 grit paper before priming it. Hope that helps.

[klutz_100]

Thanks for your ideas.

I just read somewhere that they use thinned out clear nail varnish to prime metal and PE - anyone ever done that? Sounds easier for me to get than the other stuff.

I understand the the prupose of the primer on metal is to give paint a key but needs to be very light so as not to fill any PE detail, right?

I'll be in the UK in a couple of weeks - I guess I'm going to be visitng a Halford's, railway model shops....who knows, maybe I'll manage a pub or two as well

[RallyRaider]

Actually with the etch primer I use I find it is best to lay the paint down thick. This is so the solvents have plenty of time to do their work etching and holding onto the metal. Even though the coat looks thick when applied, it reduces down very thin when dried. Of course that is just with the paint I use here in Australia, in your part of the world different primers may behave differently.

[Sticky Fingers]

Don't know if you'll be able to fly out of the UK with aerosols Even though arseols are still allowed on planes