The '98 5th gen has passed the 50k mile mark, and has developed some scratches in the clearcoat. My two main concerns are: 1) the tank, primarily because of scratches but I also want to install the TechSpec grips that I purchased a couple of years back following my first track day experience without being able to grip the tank well enough with my legs (I kept sliding into the tank and having to push myself back). It will be easier to paint before installing them. 2) the left side cowl which was purchased new from Honda following my near miss with a deer three years ago. I also wanted to add clearcoat to my pillion cover. I've painted all of the other plastics following the close call with the deer, and in the process found that the factory clearcoat is extremely thin. I was also successful in protecting the stickers, that were otherwise unprotected, with clear, and want to follow suit with these three items.
First, I have a question regarding the fuel supply line under the tank. For those of you who have removed the tank, have you replaced the sealing washers with new as the service manual suggests? I'm tempted to reinstall the used washers. What is your experience?
Here's a photo of my three subjects prior to paint prep of the tank. I've already sanded the other two with 2,000 grit
