Topic: Bare metal gas tank

[longshanks]

So I've been wanting to go the bare metal look for some time now and I was just going to rattle can a clear coat on it after paint stripping it but after talking to different sources that seems like a bad idea. One paint professional told me it would turn yellow if it wasn't UV protected and after doing even more research it seems like powder coating clear is the best way to go. However, that sounds really expensive and most people don't like to powdercoat a gas tank because of the possibility of explosion if any latent fumes accumulate.

I don't care so much for the "niceness" of the tank. I kind of want that ratty look but I want to keep the rust out for obvious reasons. Could I get by with rattle-canning the tank every so often when needed?

[CycleRanger]

However, that sounds really expensive and most people don't like to powdercoat a gas tank because of the possibility of explosion if any latent fumes accumulate.

If you're set on bare metal powder is the way to go.
I would expect it to cost ~$100, maybe less, (depends on how much prep they have to do) or so to have a tank powder coated and anyone who says the tank might explode is an idiot or just doesn't really want your business or both.

[longshanks]

Where would be some good places to check out for powdercoating? Auto body shops? motorcycle shops?

[flybox1]

you in the US?
go to google maps
type in your zip code and hit enter.
you should see the map of you area. zoom out a little for a larger map area.
now, type in Powder coating services and hit enter.
this will show you all the powder coating places in your map.

done....

[Ira]

My tank has been stripped bare for 2 and a half years. I didn't coat it or paint it.  It will occasionally get a spot of rust here or there, but I just rub it with wd-40 and a rag or scotchbrite pad every few months.  the bottom side is painted, but no one can see it anyway.  Picture is in my signature.

[Toxic]

Ira  -  tank looks real nice and goes well with the overall look of your bike

Cute kid, massive dog.  LOL

[Ira]

Thanks

[apex_seeking]

I just did exactly what you're talking about but I went with powder. It turned out great and there will be no explosions. My buddy did it so I can't tell you what the cost would be but $100 sounds right. And it's more durable than rattle can.

[nayto550]

Where would be some good places to check out for powdercoating? Auto body shops? motorcycle shops?

Check the phonebook or google, there's usually places that specialize in powdercoating.

Also, if you really want to try spraying clear on, I would give the SprayMax clearcoat a try.  It's a UV resistant, 2 part urethane in an aerosol can.

[greenjeans]

Unless you store it out side in the elements, a little WD-40 and a scotchbrite with keep the rust at bay.

[longshanks]

you in the US?
go to google maps
type in your zip code and hit enter.
you should see the map of you area. zoom out a little for a larger map area.
now, type in Powder coating services and hit enter.
this will show you all the powder coating places in your map.

done....

yes, i'm in los angeles, and yes i know how to use google maps 

[longshanks]

Unless you store it out side in the elements, a little WD-40 and a scotchbrite with keep the rust at bay.

not so sure that would be enough given that i'm right near the ocean.