Ideally, before
painting the exterior:
- find and fix as many
leaks as possible (i.e., through rivets and screws, belly band, windows/window frames, towing
lights, etc)
- get rid of all silicone caulk and loose caulks completely
- reseal small holes made by rivets and screws with polyurethane caulk
- reseal behind window frames, roof vent, and other through-hull fixtures, if leaking, with butyl tape (1/8" x 3/4")
There are many threads in this forum covering these subjects as well as methods for prepping the exterior for
paint, selecting and applying paint, etc.
Good luck, enjoy and then go camping!