My first airplane was an Acro Sport II and I had two separate tech counselors tell me the same thing Tony. Powder coating was not a very good idea. so I opted for traditional primer and then paint on the steel structure. Even on a flat part without welds, they didn't recommend it because if the part does develop a crack, or even a stressed area, you won't see it until your kiss your butt goodbye..
Fred Johnson Reno, NV Tony wrote: I've been told (by someone who seems to know what he's talking about but may not be an authority) that powder coating is not a good idea for structural parts because cracks, particularly around welds, may be hidden by the powder coating. Can anyone shed some light on this? Tony King