partially disassembled bike

[Yojik]

I am preparing to do my first paint job (98 Suzuki Intruder 800) and have gotten all my equipment and materials ready to go... My problem is that I cannot disassemble this motorcycle down to the frame - I've gotten the tank, seat, and some small side panels off but the rest has to stay on. Time, mechanical skill, and available equipment have all decreed that this is what I must work with. I realize this is less than ideal and I am wondering if anyone has any tips to make this work? I am doing a relatively simple job with ghost flames. I have everything masked off for the base coat but I am concerned about the smoothness of the paint on the fenders and frame. Can anyone provide any tips for this?

 

[rex]

This is definately not the way to do it,but if you have spent the time and aggrevation taping go for it.Just make sure you take care and spray it on evenly,getting around taped off parts can be challanging.

 

[Yojik]

Thanks Rex, very nice to get some feedback. I am wondering in particular whether I should try to sweep the whole thing as per the HOK tech manual or whether I should go part by part. Any recommendations? Mucho gracias.

 

[Jim]

an airbrush would help you a bunch!they get into some pretty tight places without running all over.you could pick one up on ebay for under $50.it would be money well spent.you could hit all the tight spots first then go over with your paint gun.

 

[Yojik]

Jim and Rex - Awesome tips - thanks! I think that getting an airbrush would be well worth the expense!

 

[rex]

On the areas you can get a full pass of the gun do it,but in areas you have obstructions in the way it'll be tricky.The easiest way is slowly build it up in that area and then pick up the edge of it and continue on.The airbrush or even a detail gun would be great for these areas.