Subject: Re: How to remove existing paint? Posted by: Gene Powell on December 21, 1999 at 20:31:32: In Reply to: How to remove existing paint? posted by Wing Djaya on December 19, 1999 at 23:11:00:

Message: >I have a Trek Y-3 with RST Delta HL. I am not getting used to the orange color of the RST with my bike. So I am planning to repaint the RST fork along with the cro-moly rear triangle. I have got a couple of questions Hi Wing, I'll try to answre your questions one at a time fell free to contact me directly if you need more info. I'll offer some guesses on prices but the cost of these materials may be signifcantly different in your area, also prices seem to be going up faster than I can account for. >1. How do I remove existing paint? I start by chemically stripping, have it dipped if you can to clean out the grease and oil as well, then I glass bead the parts to provide a clean etched surface. The fork should be completely dissasembled before you try to strip it >2. What do I need for painting a new color on the fork and cro-moly? Chemical etch / conveversion coating for the aluminum, phosphoric acid etch / conversion for steel(DuPont5717), Bare metal primer (Dupont Vari-Prime 615-616-620, $75), Primer Sealer (DuPont Euro,1130-1135-1120 $75), Colour coat (DuPont Imron $45qt, 192s hardner/catalyst $35), Clear Coat (DuPont Imron Clear Coat $30, 192S), plus air compressor, spray gun, respirator, clean-up solvents, sand paper etc. >3.Are there any differences in painting aluminium and cro-moly? Not after the initial prep is completed >4. Is this easy enough to tackle for a beginner mechanic or do I absolutely have to have it done professionally? No theres no easy way and aside from the reasons you might infer from the above information, you should be aware that these materials a extremely toxic and difficult to work with. Also small round tubes are just about the most difficult thing I know of to put a uniform coat of paint on. >5. What kind of paint should I use? I use DuPont products exclusively because they back up thier products, they have complete systems and, to avoid any compatability problems. >Thanks for reading. Sure no problem, hope I saved you a few bucks,and alot of frustration, >Wing Gene Powell Rad Finishes (503)239-1134