Posted by Johnd [172.70.34.209] on Friday, October 15, 2021 at 17:41:28 :
In Reply to: Galvanizing posted by TrackMagicWS6 [172.70.34.171] on Thursday, October 14, 2021 at 20:33:04 :
I say go for the galvanizing.
Vaughn was right about the galvanizer needing vent/drain holes anywhere the zinc can get trapped.
I would NOT worry about the fact it is a double frame. Its true that the galvanizing won’t go between the tightly pinched frames where they are riveted. It is true for paint also. The galvanizing is actually done at 800 degrees F, and it is very thin and runny at that temp.
Your frame will be suspended at an angle when dipped. As they lift the frame out of the galvanize bath, there are guys called “Tappers” that use mallets to tap on the frame to promote the drain off of the runny liquid. This is also the time that the vent and drain holes allow the zinc to leave any blind corners that could trap it in place. Obvious places would be cross members or closed off pipe or tubing - they need vent holes to allow the zinc to flow into them, and drain holes to let it flow out before cooling and hardening.
Any threaded holes need a bolt screwed into them, and the bolt cant protrude beyond the threads so they can be unscrewed. The threads will be intact if you do this, or you could clean them up with a tap.
Also consider running board brackets and such for galvanizing.
Our company galvanized thousands of trailer frames over the years. We learned a few tricks, but a galvanized frame is MUCH better protected than a painted frame, even though there will be some very tight areas that the galvanize will not be able to get into.
I estimate you could have your frame done for less than $800.
You will need to research what galvanizers near you have a tank large enough to submerge your frame. Some do not, so when you contact them, amke sure you have the dimensions at the ready.
Follow Ups: