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Managed to get some time at the weekend to prep the aluminium sheet. To make sure the primer really sticks to the aluminium I sanded down the surface with an abrasive pad. Gives it a bit of a 'tooth'.


I then degreased it with a warm water/detergent mix and rinsed it off with cold water using a watering can. Areas like this (below) where the water was quickly repelled, indicated grease spots and required repeat degreasing.


When dry, I sprayed 2 coats of Halfords grey primer following the instructions on the can and allowed it to dry/harden for 24hrs.


Using 800 grit wet & dry paper I sanded the primer layer smooth. A good tip is to soak the wet & dry in a bowl of warm soapy water for 10 minutes before sanding. The detergent acts like a lubricant and stops the primer clogging too much. A good wash down with water and the aluminium panel is now primed and ready for action!