I am attempting to spray paint(rattle can)some handlebars and was wondering if anyone has done this and has any tips. I am trying for a gloss black. I sanded them down and primed and painted a few layers. Then I put on a few layers of clear coat. When installing the internal wiring after letting the paint dry for almost a full day, I smudged the paint pretty bad and now I need to start over. The paint said it would be ready to handle in 2 hours. That wasn't the case. Suggestions?

 

Do light coats and let them dry all the way. Sounds like your primer or paint was too thick. What kind did u use?

 

Why not scrap the paint idea and just have em powdercoated? Looks great and lasts alot longer/holds up better.

 

Why not have them powder coated? I don't think there's anyway to do that job with a spray can and not have some kind of scrap or scratch when putting it back together. That finish is just not as durable as a sprayed automotive finish or PC.

 

+1 on the powder coating. It will be WAY more durable and less of a headache.

 

I was hoping to get then installed in the next few days. Didn't want to wait two weeks for powder. Thanks guys

 

Paint has to "cure" not just dry. rattle can paint, because of the thinner they need to use to keep in flowing takes a minimum of 30 days to cure. could be longer depending on thickness, temp, humidity....

two tips... don't scimp on the paint, buy the expensive stuff. best there is.

second... try tis on scrap first, but shoot it with flat paint, let it dry completely, they hit it with youre gloss clearcoat. you will get a higer looking gloss, beeter adheision and a more uniformed color.

I have done the rattle can thinh for years and years

OH, and if the bars were chrome, just scuffing them up ain't enough... you goota get it all off for a good job.

 

Could check with a dealer for some take-offs to use while you have them PCd. My dealer has some waiting for me for when I am ready to do several parts.

 

I painted my BR Customs bars and they turned out great! No problems at all. I used a self etching primer first. Then painted gloss black and then clear coat. I have used the same method on my rims on my Night Train and they have held up great!

 

I am thinking I might just say screw it and wait for the powder coating if the curing will take that long. It just sucks not being able to ride at all during march when we have had such great weather.