what type or brand of paint seems to hold up the best on drives?base clear,single stage,emron...got two for a friend to paint and dont want to waste my time on something that wont last.thanks

I have used epoxy primer for “below waterline” application and Imron with very good success. If the drives have corrosion, make sure you take those areas down to bare aluminium. Prepping is the key.

thanks...imron was first thing i thought of

I've used autmotive urethane base/clear on my drives and it holds up well so long as you don't run into stuff. Preparation is key though.

Mercury Marine has an outdirve paint line up that I have used for touch ups, etc. I think they call it Phantom Black. As said, prep is key, patience on dry time between coats, all good on mine....

This stuff is a little pricey but man is it tuff. Did my 406 with it 3 yrs ago with a paint brush looks awesome. Has a very long cure time. Bought mine at West marine. Maybe find it online for less.

I've used MS600 Imron , PPG Concept and Southern Poly Urethanes epoxy primer. The MS600 is what Rick at IMCO said they paint there drives with.
But any Quality 2 Part Urethane will work IF the Prep is Right!!

thanks for all the replies...im still undecided on what im using but luckly i have plenty of time to decide.

Use the gm jet black paint code for the correct shade of black. W8555 I believe it is .
Single stage quality name brand urethane enamel will produ ce the finish that will make it look like a brand new drive from merc. Easier to blend in any touch ups after the fact also.
Duponts Nason line of single stage gm jet black is the best I have found so far in over the counter 2k urethane single stage so far , and adheres nicely to bare aluminum and fiberglass like imron used to.

Wa8555. Perfect match if they mix it right.
Don't worry about what to do with the leftovers lol.