Keel Paint

[EchoPilot1975]

I'm looking for any advice or comments on some keel paint options.

I have cast iron bilge keels and I need to repaint them. I've heard from a few others that coal tar epoxy is great for cast iron. Is this true? Any experience with this as a primer to ablative plaint?

What are the best primers for cast iron in the marine environment?

Thanks for all the comments in advance!

[Tempest245]

I'm planning on taking my lead keel down to metal. I asked today and it was recommended that I use Interlux Interprotect 2000VOC . It appears reading the spec sheet that it can be used on cast. I'd also be interested in what others have used.

[DeepFrz]

I would check with the paint manufacturer but on cast iron I think you want a two pack self etching primer. I'm not sure about what is needed for a lead keel.

[GordMay]

I've had great experience with Por-15.
Product Information

[KDH]

Back when we had a boat with a cast iron keel, we used ospho to etch/convert any rust before priming. With a cast iron keel it really is worth it to have someone come out and blast it to the bare metal but be ready to etch and prime right away whether you use an epoxy or not. Obviously, never use a copper bottom paint on a bare cast iron keel. Unfortunately, a lot of yards seem to think that's ok!

[robert644]

At work we promote Wasser Miozinc for metal. The commercial fishermen use it as well as the little shipyard here. I have never seen it used on a sailboat, but I don't see why it couldn't. Below is from the company's website -
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MC-Miozinc 100 meets strict VOC specifications for industrial maintenance coatings. The combination of zinc and micaceous iron oxide (MIO) pigments makes this primer is ideal for protecting pitted steel or steel with complex geometry.
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[EchoPilot1975]

Thanks for all the quick replies!!! I'm looking into all the products and will hopefully find a good economic friendly choice. I plan on using some Interlux 2000e in the future for my project so I'm glad they have something that can work with cast iron.