Any motorcycle after a long use needs not only technical repairs, but also cosmetic ones. And before painting their "iron horse" motorists must have a number of questions related to the choice of paint, application technology and varnishing.
The choice of paint and primer
The choice of paints and varnishes is the first stage. You should buy a primer that is considered one of the best for painting motorcycles. These are GFK-21 or FLK-03 brands. These primers do not react with the "native" vehicle coating and have excellent adhesion.
There is a great variety of paints on the wound, so 3 popular types should be disassembled in more detail:
Perhaps the most popular is nitro-enamel. Low price, quick drying and a fairly wide variety of shades are the main advantages of this type. Low resistance to materials with chemical properties, intolerance to chemical damage, as well as a weak, dull gloss are the disadvantages of this paint. Experienced motorcyclists use nitro enamel 2 times a year: in the spring, before the start of the season, and in winter, during a major overhaul, the tank and fenders are repainted.
Acrylic is a cross between the last two options. The paint is afraid of gasoline, but at the same time it is not afraid of mechanical damage and it is extremely easy to use.
It remains only to choose the option that suits you.
Instruments
After choosing and buying paint, choose the rest of the tools and means:
- paint thinner;
- putty;
- masking tape;
- degreaser (white spirit);
- old paint remover;
- sandpaper;
- spray gun, air compressor and a set of sprayers.
Preparation
The more carefully you prepare, the more successful you will be at painting. Clean the room where the whole process will take place. And, of course, prepare the motorcycle parts themselves for painting:
- Remove parts from equipment (tank, fenders, side shields);
- Remove all dirt, dust, traces of oil and gasoline, dry thoroughly;
- Carry out straightening (if necessary, carry out welding work);
- Get rid of old paint using a washer, sandpaper or a special screwdriver nozzle;
- Knead the primer and evenly apply it on the part in 2-3 layers;
- Dry the part for 2-3 days until completely dry;
- Apply a thin layer of putty;
- Smooth out uneven areas with sandpaper.
Coloration
The whole process begins with the fact that the paint is filtered, diluted with a solvent and kneaded. Next, the spray gun is charged, the spray spot is adjusted, and the first layer is applied at an interval of 20 - 30 cm, and after 20 minutes - the second layer. Moreover, the main (first) layer must be necessarily thin. This is necessary in order to see all defects and irregularities in time and immediately eliminate them.
After that, the third and, if necessary, the fourth layer is applied. After complete drying, the painted surface is carefully sanded. Optionally, it can be varnished or recently popular "liquid" glass.
