Ironhead Restoration - Paint or Powder Coat

[dsk1000]

So, I'm soliciting opinions on whether to paint or powdercoat a 1975 XLCH frame for a restoration.

I believe some feel that since powder coating was not used in 1975, the frame should be painted. However, I believe frames then were coated using "stove enameling" which I believe is rare to find. So, painting with wouldn't be all that authentic either? Perhaps someone knows what process was used to paint these frames.

I have been told that many credible restorers are powder coating old frames.

All opinions welcome. Thanks.

Doug

[tensejed]

i think powder coat is somewhat more durable but theres no real touch up, where as painted could be touched up after fitting the motor and such and look good.

my .02

[meanmechanic]

How much of a restoration is this? If it's a true resto. then it's paint. If it's a refurbish for yourself, powdercoat is the way to go.

[JimInNY]

Anything I ever owned that was powder coated eventually rusted under the coating, like my Dodge truck bumpers. I wouldn't powder coat anything, ever. I used epoxy urethane on my frame 9 years ago and it still looks like new.

[Magneto Sportster]

if you are restoring the whole bike to original condition, then paint it. a good enamel will give you a finish close to the original. Joestuff sprayed his '62 with a high quality enamel from a spray can and it looks pretty darn good.

if by restore you really mean refurbishing, then do whichever you prefer.

[ericfreeman]

Originally Posted by JimInNY

Anything I ever owned that was powder coated eventually rusted under the coating, like my Dodge truck bumpers. I wouldn't powder coat anything, ever. I used epoxy urethane on my frame 9 years ago and it still looks like new.

+1 on this! I can't tell you how many things I've worked on that were powdercoated and had the coating peeling off due to corrosion underneath. I'll never powdercoat anything I own. High quality urethane paint is the way to go.

Eric

[dsk1000]

Thanks. I am shooting for restoration. If anything must fall short of a full restoration for now, I want my options open to complete it in the future. Hence, the decision on the frame coating.

Does anyone have any paint recommendations for an industrial polyurethane?

[fdny37]

Well I guess if your going for a 100 point restoration your going to have to paint it. I think for the fellow members whose powder coating peeled it was probably bad preparation by the coater. The motor company frames are all powder coated these days so it's safe to say that if it's done right it will last.

Here is a picture of my '75 XLH frame which I think came out beautiful after powder coating.

[Moon Wolf]

Who are these reputable restorers? If you are going to restore the bike, paint it--period. In fact, I've spoken recently with two AMCA judges who say that they are going to start docking points for base coat-clear coat. I would go one of two ways. If your painter is doing it, go with a single stage urethane, 80% gloss on the frame. If you're doing it yourself (highly recommended) buy a can of good black epoxy paint. A lot of top shelf restorers actually prefer the spray can method (frames only) because they are so easy to retouch.

As 64xlh mentioned, take a gander at Joestuff's gorgeous 62 high-point restoration. His frame paint job came out of a poof can, and it looks great.

[1976 XL]

My frame was powder-coated when I bought it. It is very durable, but I think you will have to tap all threaded holes, and make sure your grounds make contact to the frame. When I get chips in mine,I touch it up with enamel paint.