ANOTHER interesting question (at least I think so)

[D&P-OR]

How many of you guys are spraying the bottom of your coils with a (non-metallic) pickup bedliner spray (for added durability) instead of useing coil covers?---What's your thoughts on this?------Del

 

[I a thr]

Del, I have been experimenting by spraying my coil covers. I have just been watching it for durability. After a year it is holding very well. I got the spray can from a local auto parts store and seems like it was about $8.00 and have used it on several coil covers and also on the handle of my Preditor digging shovel. It looks good and seems to be holding well on it also.
Bill

 

[D&P-OR]

Hey Bill----Whats the name of the spray you purchased?------Thanks, Del

 

[D&P-OR]

Only one wise man uses bedliner spray???? Does anyone use coils??

 

[tab-nabit]

I sprayed 1 coil bottom so far and that was maybe a year to a year and a half ago. It's a open spoke spider type of coil and the detector is a loaner unit. Not really a lot of use but it had held up well to the punishment that kids can create.
The coil cover didn't stay on for some reason, either a little flaw on the cover or the coil, I don't know. I'm thinking the cover is a little warped.
It just hit me one day to spray a coil since I was spraying other stuff. So just thought I'd try it. I use the stuff for misc stuff like ladder steps, boat, platform the turkey fryer sits on etc. I had got a deal to good to pass up so ended up with cases of the stuff.

 

[Brokensignal]

Look on beach hunting forum they use a marine brush on epoxy,It looked pretty cool a dude named gravedigger from Va,Beach coats his this way on his Minelab Excalibur coils.

 

[Neil]

Del, I have been experimenting by spraying my coil covers. I have just been watching it for durability. After a year it is holding very well. I got the spray can from a local auto parts store and seems like it was about $8.00 and have used it on several coil covers and also on the handle of my Preditor digging shovel. It looks good and seems to be holding well on it also.
Bill

Del and Bill, thats what Im using also. Ive put it on two tornado coils and one WOT coil (just sold that one) and have hunted a bunch with them and its not wearing off. I first tried the expoxt stuff that Brokensignal has referred to and that stuff chipped off when I hit the clamshells I run into on the beach, but so far
this stuff is holding up very well. I got it in the auto store also, I have to go outside in my shed and check the name on it. I put like 6 coats, an hour apart on each coil and havent had to recoat yet and its been quite awhile.
either way, epoxy or bedliner, getting away from the trouble coil covers are is a pleasure

Neil

 

[Monte]

Del,

Sorry I didn't get respond to your counter-post elsewhere on the forums regarding this same topic. Just been too buy with work or trying to get some swing-time in.

As I replied to the post you asked me regarding the use of coil covers, or other similar posts I have replied to, my personal preference is to not use coil covers on most coils. It's been that way for decades and will likely continue to be that way. Since I don't abuse my detectors and clean them regularly, I just don't seem to have an issue with the wearing out topic. When you look at the posts of folks who do use them, it seems that the #1 reason they cite for using them is to protect their appearance for future resale value. That's fine, and it makes some sense.

However, take a look at many of the detectors in use. The ones you might own and use, or those of friends, or even strangers you encounter hunting your favorite local park. Check out the photos of detectors and coils sold on various forums. Like I have stated, manufacturer's operating instructions suggest you work the coil an inch or two off the ground. While there will be some occasional contact, actual "scrubbing" is discouraged. So search coils are/should be swept of the dirt and grass and sand, and, with most hobbyists being "coin hunters," I'd guess that grass is the main surface over which a search coil is worked. Also, coils are easily rinsed off in a stream, a puddle, or at a faucet which easily (and gently) removed the sand, dirt and grass.

But don't just look at the other operator's search coils, but the detector itself. Look at/for the torn or chipped armcup foam. Notice the foam grip to see if it, too, is cracked or perhaps hardened and brown from being gripped with a dirty hand. Check out wear of the paint or other finish around the corners, on the bottom of the housing, or the decals. Note, too, the dirt under and on the control knobs. How about the dings and chips and dents caused by uncased detector in with other gear, or from frequent bumping contact with a tool belt or digging trowel or other tools.

I have acquired dozens of used detectors through the years, hundreds, to be sure, and most of the time the search coil is in better condition than the rest of the detector. Seldom, very seldom, have I had a search coil that was truly uglier than a worn/abused detector. The resale value of the very expensive detector is compromised far more by wear and tear than the resale value of a search coil. So, to me, there's little cause to use a coil cover.

I have used spray-on or paint-on coatings, be them a rubberized type or a glossy surface. I found that some were actually about as heavy, when finished, as some of the thin coil covers. The weighty "feel" at the end of the rod is the same. I last checked out a product at a prospecting and detecting shop I worked part time at and decided it wasn't really necessary and didn't accomplish much.

Just use caution when selecting the product. While it might appear to be fine, I think some might have an effect on the search coil sealer material between the coil-top and coil-bottom. Coil separation and water intrusion isn't a good thing.

Okay, I guess I've worn my opinions out on this topic. I need to get some rest as I'm off to get a new-to-me XLT E-series tomorrow ... my 21st XLT ... and even though I have said it before, this time I intend to make this one a keeper from here on out. A great compliment to my MXT and Bandido II

 

[I a thr]

Del, Dupli-color is noted for auto touch-up paint. The product has a somewhat smoother surface than other spray liner products. It is more of a semi flat black. Seems to have held up well... I generally put on about three coats. It can be applied with as many coats as desired.
Bill

 

[Neil]

n/t

 

[dahut]

For the price of the spray, it seems you are not in any better situation than with a commercial cover. And the spray is pretty much permanent - if something goes awry, whatever that might be, you are 'stuck' with that stuff on there. Only surgery will remove it, right?
The one time I think it is a good solution is at the marine shore. A sealed, damage proof coating is probably good insurance in the sand.

And since the used detector buyer was mentioned, I'll say that as a buyer of used detectors, I would be suspicious and certainly put off, by the spray-on stuff. And I buy several used detectors, each year.
With a cover, I can remove it and inspect the coil. When I sell it, so can my buyer. You cannot say that with the spray on stuff.
It's like this: people want to look; it's part of horse trading. So I say make it possible for them to do it, and keep the sale smooth. A cover for a few bucks ensures that.

The one drawback to plastic covers is they need to be cleaned out now and then. Hey, nuttin' is perfect!

I used to be fastidious about coil covers, then I got to where Monte is. It 'aint really the big deal we like to make of it, but I go ahead and use covers. But hey, if sprayin' on some goop makes you happy, then have at it!

 

[Neil]

For the price of the spray, it seems you are not in any better situation than with a commercial cover. And the spray is pretty much permanent - if something goes awry, whatever that might be, you are 'stuck' with that stuff on there. Only surgery will remove it, right?
The one time I think it is a good solution is at the marine shore. A sealed, damage proof coating is probably good insurance in the sand.

And since the used detector buyer was mentioned, I'll say that as a buyer of used detectors, I would be suspicious and certainly put off, by the spray-on stuff. And I buy several used detectors, each year.
With a cover, I can remove it and inspect the coil. When I sell it, so can my buyer. You cannot say that with the spray on stuff.
It's like this: people want to look; it's part of horse trading. So I say make it possible for them to do it, and keep the sale smooth. A cover for a few bucks ensures that.

The one drawback to plastic covers is they need to be cleaned out now and then. Hey, nuttin' is perfect!

I used to be fastidious about coil covers, then I got to where Monte is. It 'aint really the big deal we like to make of it, but I go ahead and use covers. But hey, if sprayin' on some goop makes you happy, then have at it!

Dave for me using the spray on liner its a good idea because I mostly beach hunt and the coil covers gotta come off after every hunt as its always loaded with sand and some moisture from the surf. yes the spray is permanent but I believe the poured epoxy coils are also arent they? so your not hindering any type of internal repair that may be needed in the future. also the bedliner spray is thin enough where you can put a coil cover on if thats your preference, but the marine epoxy some guys use isnt.
inspecting the coil as you say, dont know what you think your seeing, its really the cable you should be concerned about. Ive got a couple of old coils that are beat to hell, the cable is fine and they work great but to look at them, well you would probably run from them
I think detectorpro has got the right idea, they incorporated the tough coating on their coils, you could hammer nails with them and then go hunting.
your right, to each his own

Good hunting to you,
Neil

 

[I a thr]

For the price of the spray, it seems you are not in any better situation than with a commercial cover. And the spray is pretty much permanent - if something goes awry, whatever that might be, you are 'stuck' with that stuff on there. Only surgery will remove it, right?
The one time I think it is a good solution is at the marine shore. A sealed, damage proof coating is probably good insurance in the sand.

And since the used detector buyer was mentioned, I'll say that as a buyer of used detectors, I would be suspicious and certainly put off, by the spray-on stuff. And I buy several used detectors, each year.
With a cover, I can remove it and inspect the coil. When I sell it, so can my buyer. You cannot say that with the spray on stuff.
It's like this: people want to look; it's part of horse trading. So I say make it possible for them to do it, and keep the sale smooth. A cover for a few bucks ensures that.

The one drawback to plastic covers is they need to be cleaned out now and then. Hey, nuttin' is perfect!

I used to be fastidious about coil covers, then I got to where Monte is. It 'aint really the big deal we like to make of it, but I go ahead and use covers. But hey, if sprayin' on some goop makes you happy, then have at it!

Dave, You hit the nail on the head when you said what ever makes you happy. I regards to cost one can will probably coat 10 or more coils and still have spray left for re coating.

The first use for me was a coil that had no cover available for it so made me feel better. Since that time I have sprayed several coil covers to protect them and keep them looking new. I take pride in my detectors and any machine I have or have had new, looked and operated the same if it was ever sold! I guess it's about the same as buying a new car with the clear coat finish, I still wax it to make to look good and help protect it. I guess I may be a bit crazy but I not only want a good machine to work for me but also I like it to look good too.

Heck I still have my Zebco 33 fishing reel I got for my 6th bithday and it looks a works as new, and Im now 58 years old. Come to think of it I still have my Tonka trucks that I've had for over 50 years and they still look nearly new. I guess I was just taught to respect and take care of the thing I have. Something my parents taught me at a young age and has stuck with me.
Bill

 

[dahut]

Are we talking about spraying the whole coil, or just a removable cover? If the latter, then it really seems pointless, unless you want to keep a $5 cover looking good.

If the former, then I really am suspicious. I have seen coils develop cracks, not at the connector but at the point where the halves are joined. With todays epoxy filled coils, it seems even less of an issue. So we cover the bottom with gunk, then what?

Aside from the cost, what does this liner spray help? I do see the money advantage in the spray, as long as the can remains usable. I mean, you know how those things clog up if they sit too long.
So, other than to protect the coil bottom and sides from scuffs and scrapes - a job which a cover can do as well - is it just the frugal, DIY nature of this modification that appeals?
(Marine expoxy coating aside; that I get..... no cover - no entrapped sand to cause problems, etc.)

Maybe we need a survey: What do people buying the detector after you've slathered liner goop on it have to say? Now I'm curious....

 

[Neil]

Are we talking about spraying the whole coil, or just a removable cover? If the latter, then it really seems pointless, unless you want to keep a $5 cover looking good.

If the former, then I really am suspicious. I have seen coils develop cracks, not at the connector but at the point where the halves are joined. With todays epoxy filled coils, it seems even less of an issue. So we cover the bottom with gunk, then what?

Aside from the cost, what does this liner spray help? I do see the money advantage in the spray, as long as the can remains usable. I mean, you know how those things clog up if they sit too long.
So, other than to protect the coil bottom and sides from scuffs and scrapes - a job which a cover can do as well - is it just the frugal, DIY nature of this modification that appeals?
(Marine expoxy coating aside; that I get..... no cover - no entrapped sand to cause problems, etc.)

Maybe we need a survey: What do people buying the detector after you've slathered liner goop on it have to say? Now I'm curious....

Here you go Dave, hopefully a picture can help you understand better what Im talking about. I remove the coil cover, clean the bottom of the coil with rubbing alchohol and then spray it several coats. So the coil cover is not in the picture, its gone, put in a box and not used again unless I resell the coil and than I include it in the sale and tell the buyer ahead of time the coil has been coated with bedliner. I just sold a WOT like this, not because of hiding something, but because the coil was killing my shoulder. .............so you dont have to be suspicious of a coated coil, I think most of us on the forums are honest.

This is not frugal, nor is it sloop or goop. its simply a coating such as paint but more durable. actually I know alot of guys who use it under their truck beds who take their trucks on the beach reguarly.keeps things from rusting up. and the coating is just a tad thicker than paint.
This is a 10" Tornado coil on my Sov that gets alot of use and you can see the bedliner is holding up really well, I have nothing to remove to clean off, just rinse it with a hose from time to time. Its not messy, doesnt detract from the looks of the coil and actually makes it more enjoyable knowing I dont have to wrestle off a cover thats filled with beach sand.

Neil

 

[Neil]

n/t

 

[dahut]

Dave for me using the spray on liner its a good idea because I mostly beach hunt and the coil covers gotta come off after every hunt as its always loaded with sand and some moisture from the surf.

See ,that makes good sense. I get that totally.

...

Also the bed liner spray is thin enough where you can put a coil cover on if that's your preference. This is not frugal, nor is it sloop or goop.... and the coating is just a tad thicker than paint.

See, now THAT is what I didn't get. I was thinking along the lines of the really thick stuff I see on truck beds, the 2mm thick stuff. Now that is really "goop." Thin like paint was not what I was envisioning.

...inspecting the coil as you say, don't know what you think your seeing, its really the cable you should be concerned about. Ive got a couple of old coils that are beat to hell, the cable is fine and they work great but to look at them, well you would probably run from them

It's not looking for anything in particular, although that is part of any inspection. Rather it is more like having the option to inspect, vice having that option eliminated, or covered over, if you prefer.
If I was buying a house and someone said... "Oh the underside is sealed off with a special high tech, super dooper sealant and we've nailed the access shut. It solves all your problems, so you don't need to see it..."
Well, I wouldn't be dealing for long on that house unless I found a way under there.

...so you don't have to be suspicious of a coated coil, I think most of us on the forums are honest.

I wasn't clear here - sorry. It's not that I am suspicious of the seller, or any of my fellow detectorists, for that matter. Most guys I've dealt with are both honest and determined, and they wouldn't do this unless they thought it was of some value. Rather, I am suspicious of modifications, generally, until I fully understand them.

Thanks Neil, you've helped a lot. I just might try this, now that you've showed me what is going on.

 

[Neil]

I kept trying to get the second pic up as big as the first but it kept coming out the file was to big. I cropped the pic over and over but alas I still had to downsize it.

The bottom is scratched up from hitting clamshells and what not on the beach but the coating didnt give way, its really durable.
as you probably guessed, I used the rubbing alchohol to clean any type of oils or slickness off the coil so the bedliner spray would adhere well.(something we do in the hospital where I work as a painter)

Neil

I will be calling tesoro tomorrow to find out if their 3X18 cleansweep is repairable, if not, Im gonna coat that one as well.

 

[I a thr]

Neil here it is a bit larger. Click on it to enlarge it.
Bill

 

[nw1886]

That is a nice application of the stuff. Looks good!