[peterel]

I have some parts on a plane that there is no way I can cover with iron on, looking for what is best way to seal the balsa wood that I then can paint to match. I have used thinned epoxy on the in side of the cowl to fuel prove but never painted it after. I'm worried about getting paint to stick to the dried epoxy. Fiberglass maybe?

[cassat]

Thinned epoxy is fine. Just sand it a bit and use a white auto primer paint first.
Fiberglass is old school and very hard to sand

[peterel]

Sounds good, it's all just small parts.

[Cougar429]

I too use thinned epoxy, but for simple prep on wood for amphibs for water protection can use clear poly spray.

Problem I am finding lately is non of the water-based paints are fuel proof.

[Jon.]

I’m always hearing about waterbase paints and finishes not being fuel proof, but wouldn’t the synthetic/castor residue be okay?

[mark B]

I use thin CA.

Mark

[pappy]

You may want to consider something like a sanding sealer. Paint it on and sand smooth. It seals the grain and provides a good base for paint. I've noticed Varathane makes some that's compatible with water or oil based finishes.

[peterel]

Originally Posted by cassat

Thinned epoxy is fine. Just sand it a bit and use a white auto primer paint first.
Fiberglass is old school and very hard to sand

what do I use to thin the epoxy with?

[Dennis Pedersen]

Originally Posted by peterel

what do I use to thin the epoxy with?

Isopropyl Alchohol. Just so you know, it slows down the cure time allot but it will still cure fine. Keep it warm and it helps.