Steel frame - paint chip - what should I do?

[DavidC]

What do folks recommend for a small (<1 cm diameter) section of a steel frame where paint has chipped off? I’m thinking there’s some “clear coat” of some kind that can serve to both keep out rust and prevent the chipping from spreading from that spot. Thanks!

[AngryScientist]

here is what i recommend:

Duplicolor makes auto touch up paint in many, may colors. the little tube includes a nail polish like brush inside. go to any automotive store and pick the color that is closest to your paint color and use that. it's decent automotive grade touch up paint, so it will last a while.

these things also have a chisel tip abrasive rod at the top meant to clean the "wound" of any rust. grab some denatured alcohol to clean the chip really surgically clean right before using the paint and it'll last forever and protect the metal.

https://i.pinimg.com/originals/eb/f8/84/ebf884979926d06985f5e6fa49e023b0.png

the new style with clear coat at the bottom and chisel tip as mentioned:

https://www.picclickimg.com/d/l400/pict/312590243249_/DupliColor-ACC-0401-Scratch-Fix-Touch-Up-Paint-CHRYSLER.jpg

[Peter B]

+1 ^^^^^^

[ridethecliche]

If you just want to seal it, I'd wipe it down, let it dry and apply some clear nail polish or the like.

Which of the above responses you follow depends squarely on how much you care about the finish of the bike! My goal with mine was to make sure spots don't rust. The bike lived outdoors for a bit and has a few small surface rust spots that i need to sand down and apply some clear to as well.