81 SUZUKI KATANA GSX SZ 1100
RESTORATION
STAGE 1 - FRAME
Disassembly
The first thing to do was to remove all the mechanicals so the frame could be powder coated. The wheels, swing arm and triple trees where removed in that order, then the frame with the engine which were placed on askateboard so I could move it around easily (probably not OH&S approved however with the trucks tightened up it makes a handy dolly) then all the other bits & pieces where removed.
The next thing to do was to mark all the wiring to make rewiring quicker, all the plugs and sockets can only go in one spot but marking the connectors makes it easier to rewire plus a few simple drawings where done showing frame connections... anything for leisurely life.
With the wiring removed it was time to remove the engine. This was done by first loosening all the bolts then carefully rolling the frame onto a stack of carpet tiles. The engine mountings where removed the frame was lifted off and the engine rolled back onto the skateboard.
Here's the frame ready for the powder coating.
Powder Coating
The frame, engine mounts and triple clamps where sent to be powder coated in precision silver this is a spot on match for the original frame colour. It is important to explain to the powder coaters which bits of the frame you don't want painted it will save the hassle of having to remove the paint from bolt holes and mounting points when you get it back.
They can do this by inserting silicone plugs in the bolt holes or taping up any areas you don't want painted with heatproof tape. If you forget any bits the paint can be removed by sanding or masking off the areas and applying paint stripper.
Ideally you should remember all the bits you don't want painted as you don't want to be going near your newly powder coated frame with paint stripper. If you have to and you don't trust yourself cover the frame in plastic leaving only the places to be stripped exposed.