Clear over old paint

[Steevensi]

Hi guys

I'm restoring / modifying a CB750.
The tank is clean inside but rough outside.
Small dents, bit of rust, etc.
While talking with a follow bike nut, we came up with the idea of leaving the tank as is, but to shoot several coats of clear on top of it to give it a bit of shine.

Anybody done this?
Any advice if I was going in that direction?

Cheers

[CYBORG]

I would lightly sand the tank, and then apply the clear. Make sure the clear is compatible with the paint. Should come out shiny . Follow the directions of the clear your using, would suggest at least four coats. 15-20 minutes between coats

[CYBORG]

I've done it over flat black....came out shiny

[robin1731]

Do a test shoot on an area that isn't seen much first. So many types of paint out there what you put on may not get along with what is on there. Then you'll be repainting the whole thing.

.

[rcmatt007]

if there are cracks or rust, rust will rust through the clear, and if the cracked area is flaking off, clear will not hold it in place

[raiddrten]

As far as brands go, i have had great luck with Rustoleum 2x. i always test it out on an inconspicuous area. Also, please note that it comes in Matte,Semigloss, and gloss. I sand the old paint down enough to get the dirt specks and some of the orange peel out. 600 grit is considered coarse for this type of work as it can quickly cut through. I quickly switch to 1500 or 2000 and when about 75% of the old finish goes flat [wipe it off and let it dry to see] it is time to clear it. Do two thin coats or three if you are a great painter, and sand it back a bit with the 1500. Use some Windex to help you sand it down nicely.

The reason i mentioned the matte, Semi, and gloss is that they have different drying rates. The matte hardly ever runs, the semi seldom runs, but the full gloss is nice to have as the final coats. On the final coats, you wet sand them with 2000 and then buff with Meguiars Here is my test panel on the 'Wing sitting over a 40 year old wheel Horse hood that was pretty nasty before it was cleared. The existing blems just sort of add to the character, if you like that sort of thing