howell1000 35 #1 Posted June 13, 2017 What is the pros and cons of powder coat and paint when restoring a wheel horse besides the price what do you guys think is best way to go??? thanks 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Uncle Buck 246 #2 Posted June 13, 2017 Cost is an obvious con. A huge pro is the durability of powder coat as I am sure you already know. I would likely be tempted to go a cheaper route such as using a regular tractor type enamel such as those sold at Tractor Supply and add hardener to the paint. Assuming the steel is prepped good you get good durability at substantially less cost. There is no denying that powder coat is the better but costlier option. But what can I say, I am cheap! LOL 3 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
JERSEYHAWG / Glenn 4,498 #3 Posted June 13, 2017 (edited) This topic has been talked about, I myself bought it up when refreshing my 854. I decided to paint, its what worked for me. powder coat chipping was a negative regarding how to touch up, and cost.. Plus I wanted to do the paint. Do a site search here, you can do plenty of reading with many opinions on the subject. best of luck. Glenn Edited June 13, 2017 by JERSEYHAWG / Glenn 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Molon_Labe 731 #4 Posted June 13, 2017 Powder coat is absolutely beautiful... until moisture leeches under the tiniest chip, then it peels off in sheets and leaves rust pitting. I have had much better luck with plain old enamel paint. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
RedRanger 1,468 #5 Posted June 13, 2017 5 minutes ago, Molon_Labe said: Powder coat is absolutely beautiful... until moisture leeches under the tiniest chip, then it peels off in sheets and leaves rust pitting. I have had much better luck with plain old enamel paint. Sounds like a prep issue to me. I've not had any powder coat peel or rust underneath. As for appearance, paint lays out much more smooth if you're going for a show look. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
"D"- Man 827 #6 Posted June 13, 2017 (edited) Here is a couple pics of the 18 Automatic frame I had powder-coated with 2 mills thick powder in gloss black. I am finishing the rest in rattle can. What I have done so far if it gets bumped it is almost certain to chip because there is no hardener in the paint. You can click on the image to enlarge. Edited June 13, 2017 by "D"- Man Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
howell1000 35 #7 Posted June 13, 2017 thanks guys for input i have seen vids of powder coat they bend the sheet of metal and it stays intact no cracks or anything how does it hold up on engine block Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
