sealing finish?

[COLLYNFACE4603]

So far i got the polishing down but after i am finished what do i do to seal the metal ( 2002 gsxr 1000 sportbike aluminum frame) how do i keep it from surface scratches and road scum without killing my wallet?

[jrow]

COLLYNFACE4603,

Clear spray for bare metal, ZoopSeal, or clear powder coating. Clear powder being the best IMHO.

John

[COLLYNFACE4603]

so a clear coat on metal like a spray paint? it is an aluminum frame not sure what zoopseal is or where to get it thanks for the help?

[pickleboy]

zoop seal is a hybrid sealer that is said to last up to 2 years in continuous exposure to the elements. it is on the caswell site.

[COLLYNFACE4603]

tring to find an inexpensive way besides wax to seal polished aluminum frame? not zoopseal not in budget

[pickleboy]

if this is going to be a daily driver then i would look into clear powder coat or at least a high quality clear aerosol. caswell sell vht which is top quality. i dont know if the sell a gloss clear for bare metal but worth looking into.

[fxstcguy98]

If you are going to use a spray can, I suggest you get some scap aluminum, polish it up and paint it to see if that is the result you are looking for. I agree that super clear 500 powder coat will give the best color and result. There are a lot of guys on here that might be able to do it for you that's within your budget. Ask yourself how valuable is your time to strip the bike down and polish it again every time it looks crappy again.

[mcaswell]

I'd prefer VHT Clear Lacquer, (not the Hi-temp.)
This is a nitrocellulose lacquer.

When it gets dinged up faded and scratched, you can actually buff it. Also, when you spray over a subsequest coat, the new coating will melt the old and they fuse together.

This product was specifically designed to coat brass, nickel etc.

[COLLYNFACE4603]

how many cans to do a sportbike frame?, if i get overspray on anything is it ok? how will i cure it on a sportbike your leags go right on frame not able to ride to cure (heat up)?

[sswee]

If your asking about the VHT, it's hard to say without seeing the frame. A rough estimate would be 3 to 5 cans depending on the coating thickness.
What are you asking about the overspray getting on? Can you give an example?
It should airdry in 12 to 24 hours but you'll need to check the label for sure.
SS