Foo - wheelchair frame is peeling

I thought I ask here since a wheelchair is "like" a "quad"-cycle except
the front wheels are small. I'm hoping that bike's solutions will
help. [Almost thought about asking in the mechanic forum.]

Basically, the wheelchair frame is peeling off. You can see a picture of it here,

http://shengchieh.fileave.com/wcframe.jpg

In the picture you can see that the frame is mostly black. Unfortunately
(in the middle), patches of white metal are showing up. I tried taping over
it (electric tape/masking tape/packing tape) and the tape will "rust" thru
in a few weeks where the white metal is (it's fine over the black frame).
I even tried double taping or using a piece of paper/paper towel/thin plastic
between the white metal and the tape without success - still will "rust"
thru at the white metal. The white metal has also been painted. It'll
last alittle longer, but in 2 months, it'll "rust" thru.

What do you people do when the bike frame starts to peel (not rust)?
What suggestion can you give about my problem?

Sheng-Chieh

p.s. Thank for all the help you people gave so far about my trike
(usually mechanic problems).

You might look into getting it stripped and powdercoated. Powdercoat is tough stuff, and will likely hold up better than paint to the abuses a wheelchair is subjected to. Plus, you could get it done in a loud color, if you so desired. :)

Of course, if this is your only wheelchair, you might need to borrow or rent another one in the meantime.

Is that white metal aluminum, or 'potmetal'? Most high end chairs are aluminum. Being aluminum means that it is harder for paint to stick, but also that they dont rust.
x136's suggestion about powdercoating is right on, but... constantly bashing a frame in and out of a car will wreak havock with any paintjob.

Spray paint

Thank you for replying.

maximan1, you mentioned "Spray paint". How would that differ from "regular" painting?

icithecat, I think the frame is made of aluminum. At least that is what this link says.

http://www.quickie-wheelchairs.com/Wheelchairs/Ultralight_Weight/Folding/Quickie_2/2411p0

x136 & icithecat, I'll take a look at powdercoating. If I do it, how long (rough guess), will I be
unable to use the wheelchair (I do have a spare, but it's not in good condition).

Sheng-Chieh

Update:

I think I may have to rule out powdercoating. The fabric, which is under the seat, attaches to the two
frame bars that are peeling off. This fabric is too close to the "peeling" frame (1/4") and does not
come off. Plus it may be too challenging for me, a wheelchair user.

Spray paint might be my best option.
(maybe I can do a quick -n-dirty job every few months?!?)

Sheng-Chieh

powdercoat would require you to strip the chair to the bare metal frame as it has to be heat cured (like in an oven)
a big oven

If you spray paint, sand off the old paint. Then prime, next stick whatever color you want, and clear coat it.

Also thin multiple layers of paint is the key.

Spray paint it is. Are there any difference in quality of which spray paint I use
Or they are all the same? Which brand(s) do you recommend or avoid?
(I'm hoping the paint will last as long as possible before it peels off.)

Sheng-Chieh

Here is what I would do: Remove all the non metal like the cushons and things, then coat it in paint stripper. Once you have bare metal, go to the auto parts store and get primer and the paint type of your choice. It would be cheap and last.

Spray paint it is. Are there any difference in quality of which spray paint I use
Or they are all the same? Which brand(s) do you recommend or avoid?
(I'm hoping the paint will last as long as possible before it peels off.)

Sheng-Chieh

Avoid the H2O Krylon one.