Painting Metal Earth kits

I can't answer your question (but assume you're correct about using a primer)  but would certainly like to see some progress reports as you build it. One of my longest standing wishes is for some contstruction type kits. I've never heard about Metal Earth kits but will start looking for info.

I tried to build the Enterprise model from Metal Earth, and it was a complete failure from the start.  The tabs and slots were very difficult to fit together.  The main hull broke in half when I tried to bend it, and there was no repairing that.  (I am experienced in using PE, but not like this.)  Building a model from photo-etched parts is not a viable idea.  May I suggest that you save your money for something else?

This guy must have about 50 completed Earth Metal kits. He ranks them from easy to difficult. Nice video.

https://video.search.yahoo.com/search/video;_ylt=AwrB8pUys85Zy2YAAOmJzbkF?p=metal+earth+kits&fr=yfp-t-150-s&fr2=p%3As%2Cv%3Ai%2Cm%3Apivot#id=33&vid=5927bab1d1f78fd2a7612c033d7cafd7&action=view

Don - I would recommend either etching it lightly or a light sanding with a 400 grit or so, before priming.  Give the primer something to bite into.  Never tried painting one of them, so not entirely sure.  Built the Huey, and have the Arizona, and a couple of others in the stash.  Looked at the dozer last time I was in HL.