FAI Fuels and Paint
 

I know there's been much discussion on nitromethane and paints, but here's my question...

I am a new powerboat builder and looking to just run FAI fuel. The motor that I have is more set up for it than it is for nitromethane, believe it or not (high compression webra).

This is just fine with me, because as a boat builder we are faced with using epoxy paints to hold up under high nitro fuels and waterproofing. Or faced with using fiberglass and resins, which technically speaking does not work well on keeping well formed corners, inside and out on the bottom of a hydroplane hull for example.

If I am running straight methanol and oil, what would be my choices for a finish? Would Spar Varnish hold up? I want to keep a clear finish on most of the hull, and just use trim colors by the seams to hide the laminates. What would be a durable finish without going through the task of using all epoxy (tough sanding and blushing).

I thought about using just spar varnish and model enamels, would this work? How bad is just methanol on paints?

(PS: I am refering to plywood hulls - not fiberglass or ABS)

RE: FAI Fuels and Paint
 

Hi!
I would not use anything other than 2-part auto laquers like Sikkens, Dupont , PPG, Glasurite.
Or use 2-part boat urethanes that could be brushed on, like "International" (the above auto laquers have to be sprayed on)
Metanol softens 1-part enamels real fast...No so good if you want to keep the boat/airplane for many years.

Regards!
Jan K
Sweden

RE: FAI Fuels and Paint
 

Spar varnish will hold up even if your using moderate amounts of nitro. Also, poyurethane enamels as wel as some laquers.

Paul

RE: FAI Fuels and Paint
 

Thank you for your replies!

I like using spar varnish - it seems to fill the grain in wood pretty decently. I wonder if most my work can be done at home with spar varnish and model paints, and then bring it to a body shop to have it clear coated?