Frame refinishing�

[John A.]

[Jack H.]

From a judging standpoint....

it's all a matter of cosmetics. If the final job 'looks' to the naked eye like a factory fresh frame produced in the era, then it 'flys' on the judging field.

Some blast/clean their frames, and use a form of filler (leading, epoxy, Etc.) to remove pit on those surfaces that'll be visible once the body is in place to generate that freshly extruded surface texture appearance, then paint over.

Some use an epoxy based paint (DP-90) that's thick and will naturally flow/fill minor surface pit by itself.

Some have the entire frame powder coated to FORCE a uniform surface appearance and thwart further frame deterioration.

Bear in mind that powder coating will tend to look 'artificial' to the trained eye as it's VERY thick compared to traditional painting methods. Also, it can be a problem for those fasteners intended to connect to the frame (build-up may generate interference fit by reducing the ID of drilled/tapped holes) as well as inhibiting physical contact at various points intended to serve as electrical contacts for chassis grounding.

Others, have powder coated with selective masking to thwart interference problems and then come back over the powder coat with the original asphalt paint to dull out the final appearance.

This is an area where the 'artform' portion of restoration/preservation governs. There's no 'correct' answer as to how to do it, just a spectrum of approaches. The 'right' way depends on the specifics of your frame's condition, your objectives with the car (primarily a driver, primarily a factory concours show car, Etc.), your wallet, and personal pride in the restoration job....

[Chuck S.]

[John A.]

[Chuck S.]

[John A.]

[Dick W.]

[John A.]

[John A.]

[Chuck S.]

[John A.]