1985 FXRS,at least 95% original, paint has some issues. How much would repaint effect value. Not concerned about resell, just don't want to ruin the bike, just for apprence. Biggest issues are mirrors, derby cover, & grips. With paint being the big concern.
Any thoughts would be appreciated.

 

Paint it whatever color YOU want. Serious prep work, but worth it. Just painted my 98 Ultra '49 Burgundy. Like it. And like you, it will be my last bike. BTW, strip the gas tank to bare metal. Didn't on mine and had problems. Ken

 

Thanks for reply,trike good looking paint job.

 

At this point in my life if the bike has survived this long without being altered, keep it original, that one is getting harder to find, get another abused bike to alter.

Paint codes for the 80's Harley are tougher to come up with by book but good paint vendors with have a scanner able to read the paint on your bike and give a paint code. With matching paint and decals available, not much of a problem going back to stock paint. Not many of today's Harley riders will appreciate the stock appearing bike but will warm the hearts of the ones that do.

 

It doesn't cost anything to check with a paint specialist ( get references ) for an evaluation of your paint and if it can be "resurrected" ...

 

Island Dude, depending on what you are doing, it can only be original once. What paint issues are you referring to?

Nice choice on the color. Bike looks great

 

. Thanks, panz. My phone makes the color look lighter. It's pretty much dead on the pan color. That's the photo I matched it to. Ken

 

Thanks for replies, after cleaning and checking paint needs closer, I think a paint restoration is in order. New tires next week, then off to paint guy, see what can be done.
Next issue is dull aluminum, seems to be coated, but not wanting to clean up. Any thoughts on cleaning solution
that will clean.

 

What is wrong woth your paint? Both my 78 FXE and 84 FLH are original paint but 10-12 footers. Just a question of what you are willing to accept with old used bikes.

Don't recall what all is plastic coated but I know the fron fork tubes on the 88 were plastic coated. Used steel wool to get through it all and then polish it.

 

Thanks Panz, will try the steel wool no forks. Good way to describe paint, 10 to 12 foot hard to pick up on flaws.
My intent for the bike was to run through safety items, replace couple of things, new tires, clean it up and ride. Let my focus drift to paint.