Hi flajsh. I'm assuming you're Florida guy like me (I'm in Tallahassee)? A basic paint job is actually pretty straight forward. First, just sand down the boat using 220 grit paper to remove and flaking/loose paint. (You could get it soda blasted, if you want to take the whole thing down to bare metal.) Then wipe down the entire hull with TSP (tri-sodium phosphate), acetone, or a 50/50 mix of white vinegar and water). These are just organic solvents which will remove any oily residues prior to priming. Once it is all dry, apply a light coat of the Zinc-Chromate self-etching primer and let dry, then apply a second light coat if needed. After the primer has fully cured, you can paint away. There are many brands, but rustoleum marine, interlux are popular. You can either apply the paint using a roller, or you can apply using an aerosol can (Rustoleum Professional/Industrial Aluminum Paint works well). The results will mostly depend on your prep and patience. After you've applied the first coat of paint, follow the instructions on the can for applying further coats. Remember several light coats are better than one thick one. That's really about it. Like most paint jobs, it's all in the prep. I would also take the time to seal/fill any leaks you may have prior to painting of course. The interior seams of the boat can be painted with an epoxy product called Gluvit, which goes on like honey, but cures tough and flexible. It will then need to painted for UV protection. Any holes can be either repaired by an experienced aluminum welder, or patched up using a product like JB weld. Hope that helps. Holler if you get stuck. Go Noles!
