Date: Wed, 28 Dec 2005 09:17:40 -0800 From: "usgeigers" <geiggle@sbcglobal.net> To: <classicrendezvous@bikelist.org> Subject: [CR]RE: FrameSaver vs. Hydrogen Embrittlement
Seasons Greetings,
Let me introduce myself. I've had my Cinelli going on 35 yrs. Finally decided to give it what it so richly deserves, the full spa treatment: First I had the frame and forks trued (just to be sure) at Shaw's bike shop in Santa Clara, good guys there; they said it was out by 2mm from bb to top of seat tube which is NOT uncommon (must of been that spill I took back in 73'). Then off to Superior Chrome in San Jose, I asked for front fork, back fork and the usual three lug treatment but they dipped the entire frame instead. Hydrogen Embrittlement? Yes, I'm concerned. Thanks for your earlier replies, by the way, guys. It's headed for powder coat, yes, powder coat, I feel it's a stronger product, however if there are concerns I'm unaware of please, let me know. After that, home for period correct decals then back for clear coat then home for reassembly. I can't wait!! FrameSaver seems an obvious preventative measure. I'm wondering tho if it will aid in decreasing any embrittlement potential. I spoke with my friend who is the plater at Space Systems Loral in Palo Alto (an aero space company) he said, the bigger concern with H/E is if any platting fluids seep into the tubes and stays there. Well, both forks have those 1mm breather holes in them so I hope the FS will displace any residual fluids that may have been left behind. Mark at Superior Chrome has done many bike frames and has never heard of any problems with embrittlement on bike frames nor had any returns or complaints, that's encouraging news. Anyway, all said it will be on my mind when I'm doing 60 mph down a steep one, otherwise I'm cool. Dale, thanks for the heads-up, I'm new at CR.
Kurt Geiger Cupertino, CA
Kurt:
Just my opinion, but please don't powder coat a vintage bike! Powder coat is great for some applications, but not classic steel bike frames IMHO. It just ruins the look of an old frame (again, in my opinion) and is nearly impossible to fully remove later.
Greg Parker
Ann Arbor, Michigan