Powdercoating The Master Cylinder

[Crossrodes]

Mike V. told me that a friend of his had powder coated his master cylinder and it looked great.  I have removed my Master Cylinder from the handlebars and dis-assembled it as much as I can.

The problem is that I don't see how I can remove the plastic reservoir and if I did, I don't see any parts that are available for it (I'm assuming that there will be a gasket of some kind between the master cylinder and the metal body.  My bike ('79) is a twin rotor with a round master cylinder reservoir (don't know what size).  It has a single line leading out of the master cylinder to a split fitting that distributes the fluid to both caliper assemblies.  

Can anyone advise me whether this reservoir is removable from the master cylinder and if it is where I can buy a gasket...assuming I will need one.  If it's not possible to do this successfully I will paint it.

[Bob_Roller]

The plastic reservoir is bonded to the master cylinder, it doesn't come apart willingly and not so sure you could get it back together and have it work when your done .

[nhmaf]

The rectangular ones  on the 81-> bikes are fully rebuildable and come apart - if you weren't going for a "concours" look, you could upgrade your whole right hand controls setup (search for second hand parts - new ones are big $$).

[Mike V]

Mike V. told me that a friend of his had powder coated his master cylinder and it looked great.I have removed my Master Cylinder from the handlebars and dis-assembled it as much as I can.

Well, not exactly - I was talking about the throttle, brake, clutch and choke units. I think you could paint it without taking a chance on pulling that reservoir off.  They ARE expensive and I don't remeber if the o-ring for the reservoir is available.  Maybe someone can verify. That reservoir is a bitch to get off, little screw on the bottom side? You may do more harm to the plastics if you're not careful. You can prep it, mask and paint with a good high quality rattle can - I used Krylon on my little bits. Didn't mean to mislead you Mike. I have an old rectangular reservoir you can have to experiment with if you like.  Ping me off-list with your address and I'll send it to you.
mvtv@cox.net

I had to replace my master cylinder from moisture corosion and bore pitting but all the hand units are hand painted (rattle can).

http://s428.photobucket.com/albums/qq8/gruntyman66/81%20R650%20Restoration/Front%20Brakes%205-09/?start=20

[Barry]

You can prep it, mask and paint with a good high quality rattle can

I did mine like that after a PO had spilt brake fluid on it. With careful masking the result was very good and has lasted well. I used a satin black which by good luck turned out to be an excellent match with the controls.

[Crossrodes]

You guys have convinced me to paint it.  Now, next question...did you use a primer?

[Mike V]

I didn't use primer. Make sure you have a smooth CLEAN surface and use multiple light coats with adequate drying time inbetween coats.

[bruce_launceston]

I recommend the K&H brand Satin Black rattle cans if they are available in your neck of the woods.
It is an excellent durable finish and a good match for the factory black on the controls etc.

No primer required either.