Though the suspension springs are not the most noticeable aspect of your car because they are hidden behind the wheels and under the car, they still look great with a fresh coat of paint. If you are restoring a car mechanically and rebuilding the suspension to look like new, then repainted and restored suspension springs should be considered part of the restoration process. Painting springs is quite easy once they are out of the vehicle.
Remove the springs from the vehicle if they are still installed. The procedure will vary depending on the vehicle they are being removed from. Consult a workshop manual for your vehicle.
Strip the old paint from the springs if they are painted. Apply the paint stripper in either brush-on form or from an aerosol can. Allow the paint to begin bubbling and then wipe the paint off with a rag. Steel wool can be handy for removing more stubborn areas of paint.
Wipe all surfaces of the spring with mineral spirits and a clean, dry rag until all oil and residue is removed from the spring.
Apply a light coat of spray primer. Spray about eight to 10 inches from the spring in a smooth back and forth motion. Allow the light coat to dry for a minute or so. This coat will give the heavier coats something to adhere to. Apply two solid coats of primer, allowing 10 to 15 minutes between coats. Let the primer dry fully. Consult the directions for the drying time of the brand you are using.
Apply a light coat of spray paint in the color of your choice. Allow the paint to dry for a minute or so and then apply two to three solid coats, allowing adequate drying time between coats according to the directions on the can. Allow the final coat to dry overnight before attempting to handle and reinstall the springs in the vehicle.
