Powder Coating the frame 1965 body off

[Doug #42330]

I'm doing a body off on my 65 convertable. A buddy suggested that after I sandblast I should get the frame "powder coated". Is this a good idea? Would it ruin the originality? How do you prerve the metal after such an extensive restoration? Doug

[Mike McCagh (14)]

Re: Powder Coating the frame 1965 body off

powder coated frame will endure rocks way better than enamel or lacquer paint. just make sure they choose a semi-gloss shade of black. have done most of my duntov vettes with powder coating and haven't lost judging points. mike

[Patrick Hulst (16386)]

Re: Powder Coating the frame 1965 body off

You REALLY have to trust your powder coating technician, too. It is far too easy for them to overapply it, and it will look like the frame was dipped in black goo. I judged one this past July that loked like that.

On the other hand, I've had some A-arms powder coated locally and they look fine.

Patrick

[Don Becker #41636]

Not to deviate...

...but does anyone have an opinion on the POR-15 rust preventor paint? I've heard others say it's comparable to actual powder coat.

I don't have the option for a body-off, would it be possible to get the majority of parts coated by lifting with jack stands and crawling under?

(not looking for NCRS judging, just a driver)

[Michael Strinich (11202)]

Re: Not to deviate...

I have used POR 15 with "mixed" results. If the part is rusty, crusty, crunchy or basically rough, it works fine! I the part is perfect with a nice pitfree surface, it works fair.

I used it on the rollcage in my vintage race car that was all new 1 3/4 DOM tubing that I cleaned with thinner and everything else to within an inch of my life and POR 15 is peeling. Yes, I did use their "etching" product before applying the product as per their recommendations.

Apparently surface prep and condition is the key. From my perspective, the better the surface, the worse the results. This stuff works great on rusty parts!

If you are not going the body off route and can brush it on the frame that's a little edgy, I say go for it. As far as anything that is in good condition that you can unbolt, powdercoat for the best results.

This product is great for stopping rust in areas such a windshield post, birdcages etc. You must topcoat POR 15 with another paint or clear as it is not UV stable. It also sticks to your skin better than anything I have found.

Mike