I am going to be restoring my frame, and I am wondering how well powdercoating would hold up vs a paint such as por15. This is my first restoration so all advice is welcome. I have a powdercoating gun available to me, along with all the media for it so the decision doesn't include a cost vs cost debate. Im mostly concerned about (in order of most importance): longevity, protection, look, ease of application.

-Andy

My first choice would be powder coated....that stuff is tough as nails. Second I would choose a good 2 part epoxy based paint system......Do you have access to a oven large enough to bake the frame?

I do not, but I was indending on buying a heat gun to take the oven's place. I am not sure if thats a viable alternative though.

It only cost me about $200 to have my frame powder coated by some who know how to do it correctly. The frame needs to be baked at the correct temperature otherwise it will not stick to the frame and smooth out correctly. If you check out my signature under frame you will see how it was done. Here's the link http://www.leverfamilysite.com/Ray_Griffins_New_Car_Frame.htm
Ray

Another alternative is to have it galvanized, then paint it. Powdercoat, galvanize, or sandblast/epoxy/paint are the ways to go.

I'd have it done by a pro, mine is powder coated, its awesome! Very tough. it cost me around 600 I think to have it done, including the frame, trans cross member and the rad support. no cracks yet and cleans up real good.

I forgot to add that in....powdercoat is very easy to maintain :yes:

I forgot to add that in....powdercoat is very easy to maintain :yes:
x2. I had my inner fenders and all my engine brackets PC'd on my 72....VERY easy to clean :yes:

I had my frame powdercoated and it came out great. I'm sure you know this, but if you're doing a frame-off restoration, I've learned to have the frame powdercoated after the bodywork is done.

Just for an example....

I can sandblast paint off of metal easily...
Paint and clear still easy...
Chrome is a little tough...

Powdercoating...takes 4-5 times as long as paint and 1-2 times as long as chrome...

Powder needs to cure...

Most times are around 20-30 minutes at 450 degrees...

You can buy infrared spotlights which will work but an oven is the proper way to go...

Thanks for all the advice, Ill have to ask arround to see if theres a local place to take this too. Some things I don't mind farming out, some I do. I prefer to do this myself, but sometimes you just don't have the facilities to take care of something properly so you gotta do what you have to.

Restoring a 66 L78 tribute and I powder coat anything that is black, rad support, inner fenders, bumper brackets, washer bottle frame, clutch rod, pulleys, everything will get either satin, or semi gloss, frame was done in 70% gloss, great stuff