SUPERIOR PRODUCT COATING MAINTENANCE GUIDE

Superior Engineering products are manufactured using a range of protective surface coatings designed to improve durability, corrosion resistance, and appearance in harsh off-road environments.

While these coatings are highly durable, proper care and maintenance will help maximise their performance and longevity. This guide outlines general care recommendations for the different coating types used across our product range.

GENERAL CARE GUIDELINES

Regardless of the coating type, following these basic practices will help maintain the appearance and protection of your components.

• DO NOT use truck wash or heavy-duty alkaline cleaners, as they will damage protective coatings.
• Regularly wash components exposed to mud, sand, salt, or road grime using clean water and mild automotive detergent.
• Thoroughly rinse products after driving in coastal environments or on salted roads.
• Inspect coated surfaces periodically for damage such as chips, scratches, or abrasions.
• If coating damage occurs, treat exposed metal surfaces promptly to prevent corrosion.
• Avoid prolonged exposure to standing mud or debris that can trap moisture against the coating.

POWDER COATED COMPONENTS

Powder coating is a durable baked-on finish commonly used on suspension components, brackets, and fabricated parts. It provides strong protection against corrosion, impact, and environmental exposure.

Maintenance Recommendations

• Wash regularly to remove dirt, mud, and contaminants.
• Avoid abrasive cleaning pads or aggressive solvents.
• Touch up chips or scratches promptly using suitable rust-prevention coatings or paint.
• Inspect high-impact areas after heavy off-road use.

Powder coating provides strong protection; however, like any painted finish it can be damaged by impacts from rocks or debris during off-road driving.

ELECTRO PLATED COMPONENTS

Electroplating applies a protective metal coating to steel components to improve corrosion resistance and durability.

Maintenance Recommendations

• Keep plated components clean and free from accumulated mud or debris.
• After exposure to saltwater, beach driving, or corrosive environments, rinse thoroughly with fresh water.
• Light surface oxidation may occur over time and can usually be removed with a soft cloth and appropriate metal cleaner.*
• Regular inspection is recommended for components operating in high-moisture environments.

Electroplated coatings provide corrosion protection but may gradually wear in high-friction or exposed applications.

Test a small inconspicuous area first, before cleaning larger areas

ANODISED COMPONENTS

Anodising is an electrochemical process that creates a protective oxide layer on aluminium components. It improves corrosion resistance while maintaining a clean machined appearance.

Maintenance Recommendations

• Clean with mild soap and water only.
• Avoid strong alkaline cleaners which may damage the anodised layer.
• Do not polish anodised surfaces with abrasive compounds.
• Rinse thoroughly after exposure to saltwater or coastal environments.

Anodised finishes may naturally fade slightly over time with prolonged UV exposure.

CERAKOTE COATED COMPONENTS

Cerakote is a ceramic-based coating designed for high durability and corrosion resistance. It provides excellent protection against chemicals, abrasion, and harsh environmental conditions.

Maintenance Recommendations

• Clean using mild detergents and water.
• Avoid abrasive scrubbing tools.
• Remove mud, sand, and salt deposits promptly after off-road use.
• Inspect coating condition periodically on high-wear areas.

Cerakote provides excellent corrosion protection but, like any coating, can still be damaged by physical impact.

RAW 304 STAINLESS STEEL COMPONENTS

Raw 304 stainless steel is used on selected components for its excellent corrosion resistance and strength. Unlike coated products, stainless steel relies on its natural protective oxide layer rather than an applied finish.

While highly resistant to rust, stainless steel is not completely immune to surface contamination or environmental effects, particularly in harsh off-road or coastal conditions.

Maintenance Recommendations

• Wash regularly using fresh water and mild automotive detergent.
• Remove mud, salt, and road grime as soon as practical after use.
• Rinse thoroughly after exposure to beach or coastal environments.
• Light surface staining or discolouration may occur and can be cleaned using a soft cloth and a suitable stainless cleaner.*
• Avoid using harsh chemicals, chlorides, or acidic cleaners, as these can damage the protective surface layer.

Stainless steel offers strong corrosion resistance but is not stain-proof or maintenance free. Environmental factors such as salt exposure, road contaminants, and lack of cleaning can lead to surface discolouration.

Test a small inconspicuous area first, before cleaning larger areas

IMPORTANT NOTES

Off-road environments are extremely demanding, and no coating can prevent wear indefinitely. Exposure to rocks, sand abrasion, saltwater, and road debris may cause cosmetic wear over time.

Regular cleaning and inspection will help maintain the appearance and performance of coated components and allow early detection of any damage.

Avoid cleaning hot, sun-heated surfaces, as this can accelerate chemical reactions and cause non-uniform cleaning.