Frame painting tips

[shep]

I'm going to start stripping down my RE5 to paint the frame. I was wondering if anyone had tips on what to use to seal and paint it. The frame has some rust, so it will get a good sanding. Do most people just rattle can paint it? Any tips are much appreciated.

[thebikeguy]

Is there a powder coater nearby where you are, ask them for a price

[shavron]

Powder coating is generally not recommended for motorcycle frames.
Powder coating is popular with cars.
Why not motorcycles?
1. The frame is exposed and if it gets damaged (chipped) You look at it until you strip down the bike and redo the frame.
On a car it is underneath and who cares your not going to see it.
2. Power coating is an insulator and can introduce all kinds of electrical problems because of bad grounds.

With that said. Yes you can and will find bikes with powder coated frames. I would bet most that are done professionally are show bikes that don't go very far.

Hope that helps

[shep]

Yeah, I got a quote on PC'ing it. I get coatings for close to cost, but it still was going to be just under $200. I'm having a lot of other parts coated, so I'd rather save money on doing the paint myself. I think I'll just go with a rattle can epoxy paint. Seems like it would be durable enough. I still don't know what to use for the sealer. Guess I'll have to check out the options at a paint store.

[nickwin100]

I am starting to think about how best to paint my frame & I was thinking about powder coating it until I read this thread. Does anyone have any more advice on the best paint to use on the frame?
Nick

[ziggystardust]

Nick,

I've done both methods to the frames of my RE5s.

On my A model I used about 6 cans of PJ1 epoxy satin black, good result that looks original, it's thin compared to powder coating and can still chip.

On my M model I had to have the frame blasted as it was rusted so badly but this left it pitted, so I had it powder coated in satin black. It covers all the rust scars as it's a thick hard coating and would need a serious piece of gravel to chip it and if it did you can touch it up.
Regarding the earth problem, well there is only one earth connection and that's on top of the frame so it's very easy to file the coating off as it's so accessible, now you have a good earth connection. Protect with a smear of grease or Vaseline. I've had no earthing issues.
If you go for powder coating blank off all the threaded holes and any other holes that take bearings or bushes etc.

My Kawasaki's frame was powder coated about 15 years ago and still looks good. So there you have it, spray cans are cheap compared to powder coating, having the frame powder coated let's you get on with something else while the work is being done, also the condition of the frame is part of the decision as to which way to go.

Lee.

[nickwin100]

Thanks Lee.
Nick

[steveuk]

Hi Nick

as Lee said i use PJ1, i rub it all down to bare metal treat any rusty areas with rust eater then spray it with etch primer the the PJ1 black, good finish usually give it 3-4 coats


Steve

[nickwin100]

Thanks Steve. Your & Lee's advice is very helpful.
Nick