Skid steer components receive multi-stage surface treatments: cleaning, zinc-phosphate conversion coating, a sealant (historically chromate; now often trivalent or chrome-free), electrophoretic e-coat, and a final spray or powder topcoat. This layered approach improves adhesion, protects recessed areas, and slows rust spread after scratches. Maintenance and manufacturer specifications remain important for long-term performance.

Why coatings matter for skid steer parts

Skid steer components - frames, loader arms, buckets, brackets and roll cages - work in abrasive, wet and outdoor environments. Coatings and pretreatment layers are applied during manufacturing to extend service life, limit corrosion after scratches, and provide a durable finish that resists UV and chemicals.

Typical corrosion-control sequence

Manufacturers generally follow a multi-step surface-preparation and coating sequence:

1. Cleaning and surface preparation

Parts are degreased and cleaned (alkaline or acidic cleaners), then rinsed. This removes oils, weld residues and mill scale so subsequent coatings bond evenly.

2. Conversion coating

A zinc-phosphate conversion coat is commonly applied next. This microscopic crystalline layer improves paint adhesion and provides an initial corrosion barrier, especially under topcoats.

3. Sealants and chromate alternatives

Historically, chromate (hexavalent chromium) sealants were used to boost corrosion resistance. To meet modern environmental and workplace-safety standards, many manufacturers now use trivalent-chromium sealants or chrome-free alternatives. These options aim to provide similar protection with lower environmental and health risks.

4. Electrocoat (e-coat)

Electrophoretic deposition, often called e-coat, deposits a uniform, cathodic primer over the whole part - including recessed areas. Parts pass through a charged paint bath, attract the coating, then move to an oven where the layer cures. E-coat helps prevent undercutting corrosion when topcoats are chipped.

5. Topcoat: spray or powder

After e-coat, exposed surfaces receive a topcoat. Manufacturers may use liquid spray-applied polyurethane or polyester topcoats, or powder coatings with UV stabilizers, depending on the part and expected exposure. These topcoats provide color, gloss and additional UV/chemical resistance and are applied in sealed booths to avoid contamination.1

What this means in service

The layered approach - conversion coat, e-coat, cured topcoat - gives a durable finish that slows rust and helps prevent spread from scratches. Regular maintenance (washing, touch-up paint for deep gouges) and inspections remain important, because mechanical damage or prolonged exposure to de-icing salts and corrosive chemicals will eventually degrade coatings.

Final notes

Coating technologies continue to evolve with environmental rules and material advances. If you buy or spec skid steer equipment, ask the manufacturer about the pretreatment chemistry (zinc-phosphate, chromate type), e-coat parameters, and the topcoat system so you can compare corrosion warranties and expected lifecycle.
  1. Confirm which chromate alternatives (trivalent chromium vs chrome-free) are most widely adopted by major skid steer manufacturers as of 2025.
  2. Verify common topcoat chemistries used today (e.g., specific prevalence of polyurethane vs polyester or powder systems) for outdoor skid steer components.

FAQs about Skid Steer Parts

Why do manufacturers use zinc-phosphate before painting?
Zinc-phosphate conversion coatings improve paint adhesion and create a microscopic barrier that helps slow corrosion under the topcoat.
What is e-coat and why is it used on skid steer parts?
E-coat (electrophoretic deposition) deposits a uniform, cathodic primer over the entire part, including hard-to-reach areas. It cures in an oven and reduces the likelihood of corrosion spreading from chips or seams.
Are chromate sealants still used?
Hexavalent chromate sealants have largely been phased out for health and environmental reasons. Many manufacturers now use trivalent-chromium or chrome-free sealants, though practices vary by region and supplier.
Should I touch up scratches on skid steer parts?
Yes. While the coating system resists rust, deep gouges or exposed bare metal should be cleaned and touched up promptly to prevent corrosion from spreading.
Do powder coatings or liquid topcoats last longer outdoors?
Both can be durable. Powder coatings with UV-stable chemistries and multi-layer liquid topcoats (e.g., polyurethane) are common; longevity depends on formulation and exposure conditions.