Proper way to paint aluminum?

[GNandTTA]

Looking to paint the timing chain cover/oil pump and maybe water pump. From searching on the web it looks like I need to buy a special cleaner and then an etcher or primer with etcher. Do I really need to buy this or is there a better way? Will 'Metal Ready' from Por15 work for the cleaner? BTW the cleaner costs around $20 for a pint and the primer etcher was around $10 for a spray can.

 

[Two Lane]

AP 120 Prep

We're now using the newer AP120 from POR on aluminum as a pre-paint prep, then GLISTEN PC (satin) as the topcoat.

Extra-Nice results!