Paint for OMC remote gas tank

[Larry Maier]

I am looking for the best paint for my 1953 Johnson remote gas tank. Could someone please help me out. Thank you. Larry

[Buccaneer]

There’s a fellow on AOMCI “Facebook” that restores these tanks.
Perhaps he’d let you know what paint to use.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/49655829434/user/100084502405741

 

Prepare to be boarded!

[olcah]

The paint suppliers in the Antique Outboarder magazine have excellent reputations although I have never used them.   As an amateur , I use spray cans only and have had good results with red Dupli-Color Engine Enamel with ceramic  “withstands heat to 500F”.  I also use their primer.   Can’t remember if it is the self self etching auto primer or if it is unique to the engine enamel.  This paint is available at NAPA or Advance Auto.  I have not had  problems with paint softening.  To me the color match with original looks fine.  The paint can be scratched and after several seasons of constant use will definitely show wear.  That is ok by me as my rig is used a lot.  If you search Google with AOMCI paint you can see what the pros use.

OK, found the Dupli-Color paint numbers I have used all are Engine Enamel with ceramic:

Red  is DE1653 Red

Primer is DE1612 Gray Primer

Black for the top is DE1613 Gloss Black

 

 

[Mumbles]

I use Valspar  automotive base/clear system on my tanks tinted to the original Gas Tank Red. Around 1959 or so OMC went to a more orange color they called Cavalier Red. The Valspar product is the same finish you have on your vehicle so durability is no problem. If you don’t like the high gloss of the clear coat, a flattening agent can be added to it while retaining the protection the clear gives.

1 user thanked author for this post.

Larry Maier

[labrador-guy]

I use oil base enamel and put it on with a roller.   shabestari  on Ebay makes some good looking decals.   Not totally proper but they look good!  JMHO

dale

[olcah]

The tank photo above has a Shabestari decal.

[sutterhome]

rust oleum regal red, then

Spray max USC 2k High Gloss Clearcoat Aerosol

[Author]

Posts