kdlp

That's the same combo I used and with occassional daps of POR-15 as the R.E. ran out. Topped it all with Chassis Black and it seems to take abuse pretty well. I've banged it (oops) with wrenches and dropped a few metal items (damn!!) while reassembling the frame and drivetrain, etc. and it seems OK.

It's not going to be in there with powdercoating. but for paint it seems to be all right.

I assume if you're going to keep expenses down you want to do as much as possible yourself. If that's the case then paints are probably your best alternative. (Although some paints do require pro application with pro breathing gear... I think Imron might be one of those.) I'd also have some pretty good breathing gear on if you plan to spray POR-15, you don't want to get that stuff in your lungs. The good news is that it brushes on just fine and self levels, as does R. E. from Eastwood.

My .02,

kdlp

TerryT

I haven't used this stuff yet, but is looks pretty impressive!
http://www.masterseriesct.com/default.php

Kyle69-71 BBs

I bought the masterseries stuff at a show in the winter,I saw the demo and was more impressed by it than por 15.
I have not put it on anything yet,and dont know anyone who has.
My friends are waiting on me to find out if is as good as they claim.
The can says it can be sprayed on ,the demo guy said it was far safer brushed on...