Can you powdercoat spoked motorcycle wheels?

Question

I'm getting ready to reassemble the wheels for my 76 Honda CB750 and I want to powdercoat the individual pieces of the wheels, but I've heard that the powder where the spoke meets the hub, and where the nipples meet the rim can wear down and cause the wheel to constantly un-true itself.

I am going to have to coat the rim, hub, spokes, and nipples separately.

Some have said that it can be coated if the whole wheel is assembled and trued, but I thought the flex of the components would cause the powder to crack near the joints where the components meet.

Answer 1

The only issue you'll have with powder coating is the interference fit. Powder coating can create has much as .020" interference fit. I just did a guys front rim over summer. We are going do the rear after Xmas. What I do is run a thread chaser(not tap and dye) up spoke threads then the nipple threads. Make sure you (if you do the hub) to tape or seal the bearings opening. Easier than getting powder coating out. Truing will be fine. All spoke rims need maintenance during service intervals. Just check them.

Note: try to find matching nail polish or clear will work to just in case you need to file the hub holes of the spokes. It's not a hard job. Just time consuming.

Remember tap and dye is for cutting. Thread chasers are for cleaning threads.

Answer 2

Powder Coating Spoked Wheels

Answer 3

I've never done it myself but have seen it done both ways. Both looked pretty nice to begin with but didn't after a few years.

Personally I think you'd be better off doing just the rims and the hubs, if the spokes/nipples are okay reinstall them or get a new set of stainless ones.

Answer 4

Yes. Make sure you clean the wheel and all the spokes extremely well first to promote adhesion. Also, remove the wheel bearings and seals and put some old bolts in the bolt holes on the hub, or have a tap ready to chase the threads that will get gunked up with the powdercoat.

Answer 5

Yes, according to American Chopper TV. Mikey was sent to a powder coater and was shown how, the "secret" is to put plugs into the spoke holes to prevent the powder from entering.

You may find the issue on hulu.com or the web page of the channel.

IF MIKEY can do it anyone can.

Answer 6

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yes... you can powdercoat anything...(pretty much) as long as it fits in the oven, and doesnt melt before the powdercoating.