I spent some preparing the cowling for a coat of primer. First I sanded, then rolled on a coat of Smooth Prime, which fills pinholes in the fiberglass. When dry it is sanded and repeated until the surface is smooth. I primed with a light grey primer.
I decided to prime the cowling rather than leave it in the original condition, as I will probably fly the RV for several months before painting and I think this will look nicer during that period.