Question about Alodine....

[KDOG]

Ok, after I scotch brite and wash it off (soap and water, right?) I break out the alodine, now whats the best way to apply it? How long does it take to dry and how long must you wait to apply the primer?

[scottessex]

Wait! scotch brite
wash
ETCH with acid
rinse /dry / don't touch with fingers or bare hands
let the alodine sit until the aluminum takes on a slight gold tint
rinse do not leave the alodine on
let dry.
primer paint

have a beer.

[KDOG]

Right, forgot about the etching. I'll have to pick up some of that eagle one mag wheel cleaner I was told about.

Now does every step have to be done one after the other? Is there any point you can let it sit for a day or more?

[scottessex]

After you alodine it it should be able to sit for awhile.
But don't let it sit too long after you etch it, or it will start to oxidize and you will have to etch it again. good luck!

[KDOG]

You rinse the alodine off with water right? Squirt it with the hose?

[Chaff]

I have had (inadvertant) good luck with dog urine,rinsing well, then rinse well again with H2O....

[scottessex]

Oh them dogs!

Yes rinse it off so it does not continue to sit on the part.

I had my gyro unpainted, un alodined for about a year, it really should have been painted, but it did not corrode much, I should have painted the steel parts, but I was having too much fun flying, and decided I would wait until winter to take it apart and paint it. I think the new one i will paint as I put it together this time.

[KDOG]

Yup, thats what I'm going to do...I only have the 3 main tubes right now, I just need the angle package and the cluster plates so I can figure out that last seat brace hole in the tail boom....