new bulkhead, how would you treat it.

[automania]

first off, sorry if its the wrong forum, didnt know where to put it. ive got an unused bulkhead im gonna fit on my 90 and just wondering whats best to do to it in regards to rust prevention. do i just give it a good coating inside and out of waxoil or por15 type stuff, im swaying to this, given the original has lasted 24 years and wont have had as good a finish as this. or, is there a way of removing all the current paint so i can send it to be galved, any thoughts much appreciated

[TDi90]

Galvanise it.

[crazymac]

Galvanising is the best option, but there are tales of bulkheads being warped after! A couple of good cross braces is supposed to stop this. I don't know if you need to clean all the paint off 1st, cos they get an acid bath before I think?

Next best is indeed waxoil

[automania]

I sent a superwinch bumper for galv before, I'd removed most of the coating which wad plastic type paint but when it came back the small bits I hadn't removed in corners etc weren't entirely galvd. Tho normal paint might be different.
I've read bout the warping thing don't think it's actually happened just a maybe type thing, but I would be bracing it anyway. Cheers guys

[dxmedia]

After galv, powder coat?

[hairyasswelder]

sandblast it, paint will not be removed with the acid dip  ;)

Galv is a harsh rough coating in a bath of molten metal, have you looked into bright zinc plate? a more subtle method and is smooth finish.

Then maybe powdercoat then finish to required colour?

Just throwing ideas in the pot, not tried it  ;)

[crazymac]

Having said all this, how long to you plan on keeping it for? The original bulkhead probably lasted 15 to 20 years!! Without galvanising and probably waxoil either!!