Topic: Steering head bearings and frame paint

[micol]

Getting my 750K3 frame ready for paint. Will install new tapered steering bearings. My question is whether to install the races before or after paint. Thanks for your help.

[Don R]

 I'd do it before, less chance of chipping your new paint. Mask accordingly.

[micol]

That certainly makes sense. Thanks

[bryanj]

If you do it before get some wooden cones that fit nicely in the races the hold them in with threadbar through the middle so no coat gets on the race part

[newday777]

I've done the races after the paint cures. I stuff paper in the neck holes to keep paint out of the race lands. You could put a coating of grease on thos surfaces to keep the paint from sticking.

[micol]

All great ideas. Always can count on this group for direction.

[Kelly E]

I leave the old races in during sandblasting, then remove them and mask off the area before painting. I used to leave the old races in during painting until I messed up the fresh paint removing them. I use a piece of oak to drive the new races in flush and tap them home with a brass drift after the paint is cured.
I'm getting ready to paint the 78' KL 250 frame now. Once my help gets here I'll recruit my daughter to help him carry the frame out and hang it in the shed so I can paint. Since the new shed keeps the stuff out of direct sunlight we don't have to bring it in the shop between coats. Plus painting in bright sun it can be difficult to see spots you missed until you bring it inside.