Frame Prep Work

[FOOL A FISH]

I have found a local company who does shot blasting/powder coating but before I give them my frame I would like to know from forum members who have had experience in restoring bikes should I cover or protect fine threads on the frame like bottom bracket and deraillur hanger etc or will the company do this any way ?


Thanks

 

[drystonepaul]

Ask them.

Some powder coaters will be more experienced than others when it comes to bike frames. If in doubt explain to them exactly what needs protecting/leaving uncoated and get their assurance that they understand this.

 

[azaro]

Yeah, it does vary.
Ring and ask, because if the don't mask threaded areas you'll have a hell of a time trying to fit anything.

Depends where you're based really. I used Triple S in Bingley. All I had to do was strip all parts from the frame, remove all decals and then spray all over with degreaser and give it a wipe down.
They masked all threaded areas like BB shell, headtube and brake bosses and did a fantastic, quality job.

Might be worth saying on here who you're thinking of using to see if anyone else has any experience of them, as quality does seem to vary between coaters.

 

[lewis1641]

i would do my own masking if i were to get another frame powder coated, regardless of where it is going.

 

[VEGAS!]

I have had mixed results in the past. Sometimes they masked well, sometimes not. It takes ages to get the threads cleaned up.
Last year i found part of an oak table leg in a skip. I turned it down on my grandfathers lathe to make a set of bungs. One pair in BB size, a pair for both inch and inch and an eighth head tubes and used the leftovers to make various seatpost sizes. These were all slightly tapered and before sending a frame i lightly tap them into place. Result is no more sand or paint in the vital areas. Coach bolts are fitted through the bungs to they can be pulled back out with mole grips when finished.
I'm sure you know someone with a basic hobby lathe or turning machine. It took probably less than two hours to make them and they will last years.