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Can anyone suggest a tried and tested method for refinishing suspension springs. The springs I have at the moment have shed their protective coating which I assume was some sort of powder coating?

I'm looking for a finish I can apply that will be durable enough but also flexible enough as I know the springs constantly expand and contract whilst driving.

I'd considered straight auto body paint, a plasticoat style plastic based paint, threading "heat shrink" over the length of the spring and heating it to the required temperature.

I wondered if anyone had actually refinished their springs and what level of finish and longevity they've had.

Steve Matthews
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2 Answers2

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The very best solution is to powder-coat them - but you need to get them to a paint-ready condition before you take them to the powder-coating company; otherwise, it could cost quite a bit. Harbor Freight sell powder-coating kits, but I've never tried them, and if this is a one-off job, sending it to a company will be the most cost-effective solution.

Another alternative is caliper paint. You won't need to work as hard to clean the springs as you would for powder-coating, but the better the surface preparation, the better the finish.

PeteCon
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Aerospace landing gear applications usually require springs to be coated in Duralon (name brand), which is a Nylon compound that is applied much like a powder coat. It is used for its flexibility, impact and corrosion resistance, and it provides a smooth, clean finish so damage and defects are easier to visibly identify.

MooseLucifer
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