How can i stop metal going rusty?

[guest288]

Hi Guys,

I've managed to polish up the oil feed and retun pipes for the XBR but was wondering what I can do to stop them rusting? They're not chromed or anything, just buffed up but I like the polished look but I'm reluctant to try clear laccer as it doesn't look too clever on other areas of the bike (namely the forks). Any ideas?

Dave

[themoudie]

Evening Dave,

Coat of ACF50? Should keep the worst at bay.

Regards, Bill.

[guest295]

The pipes were, of course, zinc plated to stop rust. Zinc is soft and you've removed it. Paint's the only answer. I find brush-on woodstove paint is very good for preventing rust, but there are silver [aluminium] paints that work well. If you really want shiny, buy a shiny bike with lots of chrome on.

[guest288]

Can't afford another one! If I paint all the bits, does it need to be heat resistant paint?

Either that or can someone recomend a platers and finishers that would consider doing a job lot of small bits and pieces???

[themoudie]

Aye Dave,

Ever thought of trying a plating kit or some of that 'blacking' used on fine steel finishes, which then requires an oily rag to keep it sweet. Exhibitors at Stafford for both processes if I remember right and web sites as well which I don't have handy.

The mob will probably blow large raspberries but it all adds to the banter and you might fancy doing it yoursel'.

My regards, Bill.

[guest295]

Home plating kits are generally regarded as a waste of money. Any good brush-on woodstove paint will resist heat and look good as well. But there are also zinc-rich brush-ons that offer a permanent cure for rust. Some 'silver' paints seem to be very good, too. Presumably the aluminium acts a bit like zinc.

[guest288]

Cheers guys, thanks for the help. I'll thumb through the classifieds and see what I can find. I'm up for doing it myself, but I feel the painting option may be favourite!