I am going to clearcoat my old frame to preserve the decals. A friend who works in an autobody shop said the same thing. Said it will go on smoother. The pan of warm water is what I thought to do also. Is warmer better? Obviously you don't want to get it really hot, but like tap water? or hotter?

All clearcoats can't be the same. Any suggestions on what brands to go for? Just standard auto store stuff?

and while I'm posting...I had thought to repaint the lug outlines since they just look like grunge right now. Originally they were gold and I kinda want them to show up some. A friend suggested using one of those paint pens like from an art store. Sound good, or should I go for something more professional?