Painting suspension parts

murphy1

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Jun 18, 2004
Messages
37
Hello, I have a tandom axle trailer that gets dipped in saltwater every weekend. So the axles, leaf springs and other suspension components are pretty rusty. I wanted to paint them, but did know what kind of paint to use? Especially on the leafs, since they are constantly flexing, I would need a flexible paint. I tried Por 15 (a restoration paint), but that only lasted a year. Also, since I am taking off all the components to do this and make it easier, would you recommend replaces the bushings or anything like that? It's a 1987 trailer and I want it to be reliable on long trips.
 

Chris1956

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Mar 25, 2004
Messages
27,953
Re: Painting suspension parts

Murphy1, I guess I am surprized that the paint cracked off. You can try the corrosion inhibitor spray that they use to coat engine blocks and outboard blocks. One brand is Boeshield T-9, but there are others. This stuff is a cross between oil and wax, won't wash off and drys soft.
 

Chris1956

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Mar 25, 2004
Messages
27,953
Re: Painting suspension parts

Murphy1, I forgot to add. You can inspect the leaf spring and shackle bushings, and see if they are worn. I do not think they will be decisive to the reliability of the trailer however.<br /><br />I would repack your wheel bearings, before you leave. Use a water-resistant marine grease like "Boat Trailer Wheel Bearing Grease". While you are at it install "bearing buddies" and pump them up with the same grease.
 

Dan Beisel

Petty Officer 3rd Class
Joined
Sep 3, 2003
Messages
76
Re: Painting suspension parts

I would try Eastwood's "Corroless" and "Chassis Black". I have had success in the past with these products on auto suspensions when following the directions on the can. I usually rough up the parts as best I can with a wire wheel on a drill (or bead blast them) and wipe them clean with lacquer thinner before priming and painting. The Corroless covers rusty parts well but I'm not sure if there would be compatibility issues with the old POR15 or not.<br />Good luck!
 

Dan Beisel

Petty Officer 3rd Class
Joined
Sep 3, 2003
Messages
76
Re: Painting suspension parts

..thumbing through Eastwood's catalog the other day, looks like they changed the name from Corroless to "Rust Encapsulator"...
 
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