Can Suspension Be Sprayed with Undercoating?
2 Answers
Suspension can be sprayed with undercoating. It is important to note that the application areas for undercoating are the vehicle's chassis steel plates, wheel arches, fenders, and fuel tank exterior. Areas that generate heat should not be sprayed, such as the exhaust pipe and catalytic converter. Moving parts should also be avoided, including tires, drive shafts, suspension components, steering system parts, and braking components. Introduction to Undercoating: Undercoating is a high-tech adhesive rubber asphalt coating that protects the vehicle's chassis during operation, preventing damage from sand and stones. It also helps avoid rust formation on the chassis during vehicle use. It features non-toxicity, high coverage, and strong adhesion. Precautions for Applying Undercoating: For new vehicles, the protective wax on the chassis must be completely evaporated before application. No diluent should be added, and the product should be shaken well before spraying. A specialized undercoating spray gun must be used, with a nozzle that is not too small to ensure proper application. It is recommended to have the job done at a shop with machine-provided spray gun pressure, as manual spraying may not be durable. During the spraying process, areas that should not be coated, such as the exhaust pipe and brake discs, must be wrapped with paper beforehand. Specific areas are listed in the instruction manual. After the first coat is applied, allow it to dry for 10 minutes before applying the second coat. Generally, 3-4 coats are applied, with thicker layers on areas like the fuel tank and fenders. After completion, the vehicle should be parked in a garage to dry for 24 hours, avoiding any contact with water during this period.
The issue of spraying underbody armor onto suspension components needs to be addressed from a safety perspective. I once heard about a friend who DIY-sprayed underbody armor and accidentally got it on the suspension. Within days, the suspension seized up, causing excessive wobbling while driving—it nearly led to a collision with the curb. Underbody armor is an anti-rust and anti-corrosion coating that works well when applied to stationary parts of the chassis. However, suspension components like shock absorbers and springs are constantly in motion. If coated, the dried layer can cause stickiness, hindering the spring's extension and rebound. In severe cases, it may even impair handling and increase braking distance. Over time, it can also lead to overheating or accelerated corrosion of parts, posing serious risks if a failure occurs at high speeds. Therefore, it's best to avoid spraying the suspension and focus on treating the chassis frame instead. Regular car washes to clean the underbody are the proper approach—cost-effective and worry-free.
