prelude2.2 wrote:okay so they need to be chromate primed. the idiot at the paint shop told me they need self etching primer

No etch prime is definetely not up to the job and they will corrode. Have you had them blasted? I have had magteks blasted using nylon blast media which is gentle enough to not damage the coating under the paint.

I no longer have access to this facility though so have sent the last couple of pairs to TCPS in the UK, excellent service and quick turnaround every time I have used them.