Whether it’s bodywork or frame parts.
For some reason, people often bring them in already painted.
Even if aftermarket parts say they’re for ○○, there’s no guarantee they’ll fit without issues.
You should only paint after you’ve confirmed the part fits and installs properly (*´▽｀*)
Take mufflers with brackets welded to the tailpipe, for example.
Sometimes you can’t even mount them without doing slot drilling.
Slot drilling is fine, but when the bracket position is completely off, you end up cutting it off and re-welding.
If you painted it first, you’re definitely looking at a repaint.
With aftermarket bodywork (reproductions) and such, you should assume it won’t fit as-is.
Sometimes the frame brackets on the bike itself are the problem.
You’ll be removing and reinstalling repeatedly to get the fit right, so there’s a real risk of scratches—which means labor costs skyrocket.
Unless you don’t mind scratches ♪
The same goes for frame parts. Nobody anodizes first and then machines, right? Plating and anodizing are the same deal.
Some people rush to send parts out early thinking it’ll help with lead time, but it actually takes longer and costs more than double.
Make sure the part can be removed and installed smoothly and reliably before you do any finishing.
