This may depend on the type of coating you are using. Some coatings may need a very smooth surface prep such as from sanding, buffing, or polishing. Other coatings may need some surface texture for best adhesion; in that case, maybe sandblasting (or other medium), wire-brushing, or acid etching would be the best surface treatment. In any case, eliminate oil, moisture, and dust.
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In vino veritas; in cervisia carmen; in aqua E. coli.