[hd_rider]

I didn't know if I should have started this thread here or in the "Body - Exterior" area.

I have a Chrysler Prowler. One of the most visible things this car is known for is it's exposed front suspension. The front suspension is a multi-link system with double wishbone upper and lower control arms that have been anodized. The upper and lower ball joints have been pressed in by the factory and are not replaceable; if the ball joint goes out, you typically have to buy the whole control arm.



What I'd like to do is maybe have the upper and lower control arms, the steering knuckles, and the push-rods powder-coated. Several manufacturers of powder-coating now offer a high-lustre finish that looks somewhat like polished metal. Caswell Electroplating is one. I think this might be a nice alterantive to having the supsension chrome plated.

I am more than capable of disassembling my suspension but I do not have the tools to press-out and reinstall the ball joints, which should not be done anyway.

My concern is this: What damage might I do to the ball joints (or other "sub-components") of the suspension by having it powder-coated? Can these sub-components be protected from the powder-coating process?

Thanks in advance.
________________
JohnC - Kechi, KS

[pepi]

the problem I think you would encounter would be with the heat side of the coating process. Not for sure but the temp range is around 450 and would boil out any lubricant and cook any rubber weather boots that may be protecting the ball joint

[joe_padavano]

Originally Posted by pepi

the problem I think you would encounter would be with the heat side of the coating process. Not for sure but the temp range is around 450 and would boil out any lubricant and cook any rubber weather boots that may be protecting the ball joint

Correct. Not only will you damage the ball joints, but the residual lubricant will work it's way out during the bakeout and contaminate the rest of the powdercoat.

[hd_rider]

Thanks folks. Guess I'll scratch that idea.