Bolts cause new paint to chip off!?

Just painted my fork legs and then bolted on calipers. the lock washer ripped a ton of paint off the fork legs....!!!!

I'm not surprised, and I'm sure a flat washer would be better. but i've seen this problem in other places with or without flat washers.

How do you guys deal with this? I'm getting the same issue with various brackets, triple clamps, etc.

Been using Duplicolor engine paint or automotive - both spray cans.

I have a pro gun and have used pro paint in the past, but what a hassle for a few small parts here and there.... any tips?

I know someone has the answer to this... who are you? Please let me know. thanks!!

The only thing I can say is try some etching primer in a spray can at an automotive paint store. After sanding it smooth spray the etching primer on the bare metal then paint them again and keep the paint as thin as possible. Let it dry real good use a flat washer and it still may chip, good luck. I know it can piss you off.
Mark

I would try a thin flat washer then the lockwasher that would give the lockwasher something to bite instead of your paint !!

I use a lot of stainless steel washers and lockwashers whereever possible to keep things looking pristene and rust-free. Especially where a lockwasher or bolthead would otherwise dig into a softer underlying part or paint.

stainless sounds good, thanks. I have noticed that thicker paint chips easier also. I think i did use the etching primer on my fork legs, but oh well...