How should I paint my radiator core support?

[In The Ten Ring]

My core support is epoxy primed. I think I am supposed to rough that up a bit with sandpaper before painting.

A friend suggested implement paint from Tractor Supply but I'd have to buy a spray gun. I know Harbor Freight has a cheap and decent one but can I get by with spray paint?

If I can, what spray paint is best? Will plain gloss black work or need I get some sort of engine enamel?

[Jurassic-1]

If you want to be more original use an engine enamel that is semi flat or you can use gloss. Implement paint does not hold up as good as a quality engine enamel.

[hugger6933]

If you wanted a more semi gloss type color go to the nearest John Deere store and buy some Blitz Black. It can be had in spray cans and looks pretty darn cool. Jim

[sherm6413]

What I've been using on my parts lately is the rustoleum (professional) high performance enamel. Gloss black in tall can. Not the same stuff as the cheaper , smaller cans. All stores around me carry it including my local wal-mart but it is about $7 a can. It's held up as good as my frame I sprayed with gun and lays just as nicely. I can't tell the difference but I did sandblast and primed before painting as well.

[MySons68C20]

What epoxy primer and color did you use?

[In The Ten Ring]

Originally Posted by MySons68C20

What epoxy primer and color did you use?

I had it primed at a media blasting shop so I don't know. It's black epoxy primer though.

[MySons68C20]

I'm using the SPI

[MySons68C20]

Sorry pulled the trigger too quick....I'm using the SPI epoxy primer for the prime and finish coats. It is uv protected and is easy to shoot.

[MySons68C20]

The Southern Polyurethanes epoxy primer ends up as a satin/semi gloss finish not flat but not too shiny if you know what I mean. In my experience it takes weeks before it is fully cured to final hardness based upon my experience.

[sherm6413]

I used rustoleum etching primer then the professional enamel. The reason I went with it for my truck parts is because how well it's held up on a utility trailer I built from an old boat trailer. I'm very pleased so far...