Blast, Prime and Paint Fuselage

[PropMan]

So, as the time is very near for me to do these things. I wanted to know what others have done and is acceptable. This being my first tube built aircraft, i have no experience here. 

What method did you use for prep of the fuselage before priming?

[joecnc2006]

I just went over my welds with a wire wheel, then wiped it all down with acetone. seemed to work for me. my primer and paint is not very thick its just enough to protect it. I figure if it gets scratched up with the open fuselage area I can tough it up easily enough.

[Bob S.]

I just wiped mine down with Acetone to get the oil off...wire brushed any scaly points prior to wiping and sprayed the paint on... I would be very hesitant on BLASTING any thin-wall tubing with anything more than water!!

[scottiniowa]

There have been 100's if not 1000's of frames blasted in the last 50 years   of aircraft frames.  Though, done wrong is no good.  There are materials that can do a frame with no worries.  (soda-shells-glass beads, etc.) Though as always there is a cost factor to every way/type to get this done.  There has been many a frame even done with Sand and a good blasting procedure.  Yes, even on .035" walls.   if you have oily tubes, you could blast the oil deeper into the tubes... Cleans first and then again last.

Acetone has been known to leave a slight film, though that has been painted over many times over the years.
I don't think you will find any film with white gas, certainly safer.  Though both have safety concerns. 

If your in a area of flys and you have fly specs (they go hand in hand) Both above as well as any solvent cleaner, doesn't really that well.  But a touch of dawn dish soap/water does a great job, then follow with previous mentioned cleaner. 

Much depends on the paint you intend to use, as certain residues may or may not effect certain paints.

cheers
Scott