The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Paint and Body Shop Frame painting

I have a 70' GMC longbed that is kind of in need of some frame painting. I got the engine out last week, and since it doesn't have a bed, it'll be pretty easy to pull the cab off, which needs to be pulled already due to the need of new rubber and such. I thought that if I had it all off I could go ahead and paint the frame. I was thinking powder coating at first, but not enough money for it, so I've decided upon Rustoleum or tractor paint. My first question is, is one better than the other? My second question is, how do I prep? Third is, I plan on brushing it, is there anything special to that? I'm not looking for show quality, but something nice looking, and durable enough to last. And, on a side note, could I paint the front and rear suspension stuff too?

You will find a few topics on this subject, Most an I agree is to use POR15 on your frame, you can brush it on an the stuff gets hard as nails & just plain works!
I used Eastwoods Frame paint on my project an so far so good.
so there are a few options out there an all have a different cost.
So do a search an decide on how ya want to go ..an by the way POR15/EASTWOOD is far cheaper than powder coat.
Tim

The only downside I have ever heard to using POR-15 is that it fades pretty fast, but that's not really an issue when you are talking work trucks/drivers. I have used the Eastwood chassis paint in the past and really like it. It's pretty durable. Like Tim said, do a search and you will find lots of info on this subject.

Reedster, the por15 does not have UV protection in it but since its on the chassis its no big deal. Its tough as nails and will look good for a looooong time. Its about $40 a quart but a quart will do two coats if you need to.
If you pressure wash it, rub it will still brushes you will still have 30-40 dollars in spray cans of primer then paint for the whole chassis so cost is sort of a no brainer. So, if you want something to last, tough and look good POR15 is the way to go.

PLEASE be sure to follow instructions and wear a mask even when brushing it on. Its some nasty stuff and you don't want it coating your lungs at your young age!!! Just follow instructions, keep it closed tight when not using it. Personally drill you a small hole in the can and pour it out in small amounts to insure it does not dry on you while applying and keep the hole taped up on the can......
Keep us posted on how things work out.

If you haven't checked, you might be surprised at how little it really costs. My TF frame was $300, but it needed to be sandblasted. If you figure your time and the cost of paint thinner/oven cleaner to get the bloody thing clean enough to paint, you may be better off powder coating it!

Reedster,

I cleaned and painted my frame just last year with POR15, after cleaning I used a brush to put it on. It looks like a brand new frame now and I am happy with the results. One thing I would reccomend is instead of buying a full quart you may wint to buy several smaller cans if you are not going to get it done all at once. The instructions tells you how to seal the cans for later use but once it is exposed to air it seems to be more dificult to seal than you would think. The smaller cans are pretty easy to use before it starts to set.
Just my 2 cents worth

Ed

Had a gallon once, used it for over 1 year and never opened it. On the botton of the can, I would poke a hole in it with a screwdrive, poured out what i need, then sealed it with a piece of paper towel. Next time just poke another hole.