Teardrops n Tiny Travel Trailers

Howdy all-
I just got a set of steel round trailer fenders that fit my unusual spacing for my 15" rims. What are my options for finishing them? I could have them chromed for $100 a pop (yikes)...Otherwise is it just paint (spray or powder coat?) and then clear coat them? Could they be polished and just clear coated- i think they'd match the mill finish aluminum. Any suggestions would help.
Thanks!

hi Greasy...

I have the same dilemma as I refuse to pay $120 per fender for chrome. Powder coating runs $90 per fender in the Bay Area. I planned to just clear coat it because I like the raw steel look, but realized rust could ensue if rocks hit and chipped the fender. However, I found a rust preventer made by Lock Tite (Home Depot) that supposedly stops rust on all steel products. It recommends recoating after 6 months. I may spray that onto the fender with a clear coat on top of it. I'll keep a close eye on chips and will have to treat the fender immediately with rust preventer. The rust preventer is only $4.99 per can so it is very cost effective.

To further prevent rust, I will prime the bottom side of the fender with spray on primer and spray paint.

I am thinking (as skewed as it may be) of laminating wood to steel fenders.



Mike
p.s.: I'm also building a woody.

My fenders (inside & out), Front box (inside & out) front of trailer, and top side strips were sprayed with bed liner. I realy like it. No rock chips. Cost me about $300 dollars for all of it a few years ago.



Mike

Thanks for the input guys...I think i am now leaning towards chroming the fenders....i like the look and don't want to worry about their durability.
Thanks!

greasywheats wrote:Thanks for the input guys...I think i am now leaning towards chroming the fenders....i like the look and don't want to worry about their durability.
Thanks!

A viable option for protecting powder-coated, painted or chromed fenders is 3M's "Clear Bra" ( insert shameless humor here ______)
http://www.automotivearticles.com/Clear_Bra_3M.shtml
I'd guess-ti-mate that $10.00-$25.00 +/- from the local installer would get you enough for the fronts of two TD fenders (or other leading surfaces of your trailer). It can, as well, be mail-ordered and installed by you after receipt.
(As stated in the above link, this is effective against small stones & sand - it will not prevent (as Rhino lining may) dents caused by large stones, rocks and large debris)



kurt

I just ordered a home powder coating system and red powder from HF for under $60 total including shipping. I also picked up an old electric stove off Freecycle. I'll let you know how things turn out in a couple of weeks when the powder coating equipment shows up.