Who needs powdercoating done?

[jwhelan65]

I am looking to take the exhaust system on my 83 1100E to black which was stock for that year instead of the chrome (1982) it is now. I thought I would probably go the ceramic route, but I would certainly consider powder coating. The problem would be shipping. Heavy, and exhaust systems are a bitch to pack.

How much time would it take to do start to finish? If you could do it while I wait it might give me a good excuse to take another trip to the Ozarks.

Here is mine for reference in high temp black for my 82 1100E

[steve murdoch]

I am looking to take the exhaust system on my 83 1100E to black which was stock for that year instead of the chrome (1982) it is now. I thought I would probably go the ceramic route, but I would certainly consider powder coating. The problem would be shipping. Heavy, and exhaust systems are a bitch to pack.

How much time would it take to do start to finish? If you could do it while I wait it might give me a good excuse to take another trip to the Ozarks.

It will have to be ceramic coated. Powder coating the mufflers might work but the headers have too much heat.

[jwhelan65]

It will have to be ceramic coated. Powder coating the mufflers might work but the headers have too much heat.

I have had some experience with this and yes Powder Coating will break down over time. It will dis-color and fade. No matter what you do, chrome, stainless, ceramic, it will dis-color in time, nothing will maintain its looks with exhaust temps on a ride to ride basis. Powder Coating is your cheapest professional alternative. Of coarse a rattle can is always the most affordable option.

[Escobarclan]

Thanks for the feedback guys, everything helps. I'm sure there's alot of steps to take when tackling a new craft in my shop. Equipment familiarity, training, different paint brand qualities, cleanup and error do-overs, pricing, supplier cost, turn-around, etc, etc.

Just like the trial and error of what we already do, we'll just go through it again with powdercoating. Luckily, I have alot of family support, time, and a good crew.

Joe is right about the exhaust heat and finishes, it's a pain. It's one of those things were I feel there is no real magic bullet, you just have to compromise to an extent. Personally, I prefer chrome pipes, the discoloration just gives them character, as long as you keep the rust elves away, those bastards.

[renobruce]

I sell powdercoat ovens and all sorts of spray booths and related equipment, and I have a good friend that sells media blasting equipment. If I can ever help you out with some info, let me know.

[renobruce]

Here is mine for reference in high temp black for my 82 1100E

That looks real nice. Is that considered high gloss black? Who did it? And what bike is that pipe for (originally)?

[jwhelan65]

That looks real nice. Is that considered high gloss black? Who did it? And what bike is that pipe for (originally)?

Bruce

yes it is high temp gloss black for my 82 GS 1100, this pic is a few months old, I have since had the wheels and swingarm done.

[renobruce]

Bruce

yes it is high temp gloss black for my 82 GS 1100, this pic is a few months old, I have since had the wheels and swingarm done.

Looks great, but that's not a V&H megaphone. Which V&H exhaust is it?

[jwhelan65]

Bruce,
The exhaust is from the late 80's not sure what model it is...here is a pic of thet day I picked it up if that helps..Sorry for the hijack Charlie!

[TheCafeKid]

It will have to be ceramic coated. Powder coating the mufflers might work but the headers have too much heat.

Agreed, i am not a powedercoater or what have you, but ive been told by some that they only subject the items that are coated to about 500 degrees. The upper part of the header reaches temps well above that, and may have some adverse reactions. again, this is just what ive heard. Perhaps those more experienced can weigh in. Although ceramic coating can be found for not a god awfull price, powdercoating is MUCH cheaper from what i understand.

[justinmcgiver]

The high temp powders out there that are designed for exhausts withstand up to between 1000 and 1200 degrees. I've done a few headers and exhaust manifolds and had great success. The key is using the right powder and as always the prep.
I've been powder coating for a while now and have recently started a side business. http://www.lakeplacidpowdercoating.com It has been a great source of extra income and keeps getting better despite the economy. I recently built a 4x4x6 oven to do the larger parts(frames etc.) I have been getting requests for. People are looking for this service and have been unable to find it without paying a ton for cross country shipping.
Don't sell yourself short quite yet though escobarclan... Although the process is extremely simple, the prep work it takes to get a truly professional finish can be extremely time consuming. Not particularly hard but you must put some value on your time. I say go for it!

[steve murdoch]

That is great to hear Justin.
Have those hi-temp products been available for a while?
I visited my local shop just before Christmas with a set of Denco pipes and they would not touch them. A well known ceramic coater about an hour from me wants $350.00, no shipping.

[850rider]

This is amazing considering im looking to powder coat my swing arm rims frame...(need to find a new"old" one) and exchast so please by all means help your fellow gsers out =]]

[justinmcgiver]

Have those hi-temp products been available for a while?

As far as I know they have been around for quite a while. No big secret here. Hi temp powders are readily available from all the major powder suppliers.
I have been hesitant to use this forum as an advertising outlet... But if any one is interested or just needs some advice, please feel free to contact me.
Justin

[steve murdoch]

Sorry, Escobar. I should have pursued this via a p.m.
End of hi-jack.