| Question: is there a preferrable primer to use? Or ones to avoid?
|

I wouldn't prime it at all. If it's glossy you might
want to wash it with hot solution of TSP. Then
use some joint compound to even out the peeled
areas. I usually prime if I'm doing new drywall, but
not for small areas of joint compound. You can
just spot-prime the compound spots, if necessary,
with the finish paint. (Assuming you're using water-
base paint this time.)