sliders-rust proofing? epoxy (+paint?) vs paint vs powder coat?

I will be ordering sliders as soon as delivery date of my 2020 T4R is confirmed. Any thoughts or recommendations on which way to go on rust proofing? epoxy (+paint?) vs paint vs powder coat?

 

Solid prep and rustoleom seems to work well. That’s what I ended up doing. Looks good.
Powder coating is solid but I wouldn’t do it unless you can get it done cheap.

 

I like to use ppg shop line 2k black epoxy; topped with a 2k satin clear (I typically just use Omni or even the summit racing branded satin clear. PPG only offers satin clear in their higher end lineup). Rustoleum satin black is a perfect match for touch ups later on if/as needed.

The key to success is in the prep work though. Clean, sand/scrub, clean again, then clean some more. Then before painting, use a map or propane torch to draw all the residual moisture out of the metal (you may be surprised by how much is drawn out). Then paint away.

 

My rattle can bed liner did a good job for many years. And if you scrape on a rock, just clean it and touch it up when you get home.

 

Line - X seems like it would be worth it if you live where they salt the roads in the winter ....

 

Powder coat once chipped sucks. Paint or DIY bedliner work best on a slider that sees heavy abuse since you can fix hits.

 

mine on my tacoma are linex'ed. not even a scratch on them after 4 years