Finishing: etch primer?

[Rodgre]

Maybe that's the missing link for me.

Where can one find etch primer? What is it specifically? Something that could be found at a local auto parts store? Hardware store? Or is it a specialized item?

Roger

[R.G.]

Auto *paint* stores as opposed to generic auto parts stores will have it, but a better bet is marine supplies stores. It's serious business when your boat paint fails.

[dubs]

Maybe that's the missing link for me.

Where can one find etch primer? What is it specifically? Something that could be found at a local auto parts store? Hardware store? Or is it a specialized item?

Roger

Yep auto parts store has it. From experience it allows paint to stick alot better to aluminium enclosures.
Another thing I learnt, don't buy the cheapest primer or paint you can find, the quality can be rubbbish and you'll find paint will take alot longer to dry and will come off quite easily. Buy decent quality paint.