Tvan

They got the body off the frame today.
We originally were going to send the frame off to be blasted and powder coated but I talked to the shop today and he is now saying we should just blast it and paint it.
It is not that money isn't a factor but I want it done right and would pay more if one is significantly better than the other.

Since it is the frame we are talking about would one method be better than the other for this application or is there even a better option out there?

Thank you for your input.

Bernhard

I have used both powder coat and paint. I like to use a quality epoxy primer and paint. It costs more to paint but I think it is worth the extra cost.

Tvan

Thank you for responding. I greatly appreciate it.
As I understand it paint isn't as durable to say a rock chip but it is easily fixed.
Would you venture a guess as to cost to prime and paint the frame?

Bernhard

Its about prep time there is a lot more prep with paint and more coats and skill requried with paint.

scumdog

Get the frame blasted and etch-primered.

Then just paint it, there not much prep except to blow out all the little corners where blasting media might lurk, waiting to jump out and ruin your paint.

But remember: it's only a frame, not a hood...who will be looking fir 'perfection' on a frame? .

442scotty

Im in with the blast, epoxy prime then satin black epoxy..2 coats...will last forever.

Bernhard

Primer is a must/epoxy primer helps prevent rust and gives a tooth for the paint. I like paint over powder coat for this reason.We used to use industrial truck paint.

Tvan

Thank you all for the input.
So are "epoxy" primer and "etched" primered the same?

dc2x4drvr

Bernhard has the right idea, primer then use "black tractor paint" from Tractor Supply, this stuff wears like iron..some guys suggest thinning it a little with acetone.

Bernhard

No
Epoxy protects metal from rusting and is tough.

We used semi truck paint called [ imron ] spelling?

Uncle Fray

Tvan, Bernard is right on the money!Epoxy is a little more money but it gets harder with age,that's good when it applies to under the car with moisture and other nasty contaminates. Emron would be an excellent chioce because it can be reduced and shot or add a catalyst for even more durability. which I would go with the latter. It will last for years unless you drive on the beach everyday!! That's why DuPont developed it(late 60's) for over the road applications,fleet use and such. There has to be a good reason it's still popular It's tough stuff!

Tvan

Awesome. So I need to tell them to use a quality etching primer followed up with spyayed on Emron with a catalyst.
Sound correct?

Bernhard

Wrong no self etching primer


1 Sand blast
2 Blow out all sand
3 Prime with epoxy primer 2/3 coats with in 24 hrs or less the faster it gets into primer the better. keep the frame dry and free of moister untill primer has set
4 prep for paint scuff primer and blow off and wipe the frame off /getting ready for paint
5 Top coat 2/3 coats of Imron or Imron like top coat.