Powder Coating

[JLerum]

Has anybody powder coated a frame? How did the color and finish turn out compared to what the factory would have done when it came off the assembly line? I'm trying to address a conversation with someone whom is pro powder coating than doing a ppg etching primer DP40/filler/DP90 that takes a zillion man hours and $$$. Any experience and knowledge would be appreciated.

Jim

[YENKO DEUCE REGISTRY]

I have seen powder coated subframes on Yenko Deuces. It looks noticeably different than the original frames. They look very smooth and shiny, almost like the powder fills in all the little imperfections. They reminded of a frame painted with Imron, 'thick' looking.

I like the DP90 look after you've spent days shooting K36 and sanding your fingertips raw! Leave the weld spatter on it, and the stretch/scratch marks from the original presses.

[Casey Marks]

Hey Jim,

You may want to check out ECoating. E-coating is what the OEM's do now-a-days for frames, chassis pieces, and engine components (oil pans, valve covers, etc.) It is the same *idea* as powder coating (negative/positive charge), but it is *dipped* vs. sprayed. Although it is dipped, it doesn't have runs or anything. If I'm not mistaken, it's about 8mil thick when done ??? (I may be wrong on that though). The pricing from here includes chemical stipping, all prep work, and E-coat. It is SWEET, to say the least. It is perfect for getting behind places that you normally can't get to to paint, etc.

ECoat

The owner, Jimmy O'Conner is a great guy to deal with. Highly recommended.

[FESTIVAL78]

My friend had his 56 Chevy frame done in powdercoat. What he didn't expect but got was all the rusted pock marks. You cannot fill them with filler as the filler would not be able to carry an electrical charge I guess..Looks good but looks like an old rusted frame that was powdercoated..ps looks nothing like original which by the way on Camaros at least is asphalt based and looks nothing like what everyone uses as it's not durable at all...I liken it to thinned out driveway sealer.T

[JLerum]

Thanks Casey;

I know about a year ago you had some valve covers that were done real nice and you thought it was worth the time and money. I have a buddy that is powder coating a frame and in his opinion it is the best way to go. I was wondering if the years of aging was going to disappear with a powder coat job. I think it's been answered that all you do is cover up the pock marks/ rust but still have to live with the metal scars. For $600.00 for a dip and powder coat job it seemed too good to be true.

Jim