I went back and forth with upgrading to the chrome starter because dealer is replacing due to bad finish. Paint is just chipping of in small chunks! But was hesitant to go with the chrome for cleaning reasons. Just thought I wouldn't be able to clean all the nooks and crannies out enough to keep it looking good. For the guys that have gone chrome how is it to clean and wax? Would you do the chrome starter again if had the chance? My dealer would probably still let me upgrade after giving me a little razzing after all they already have the new black starter already in and waiting for a rainy day for install!
Cory
Don't have one, but it can't be as hard to clean as that wrinkle black finish on the standard starter. At least the chrome version is smooth. Just wipe it down with a little Windex and dry it off after you wash the bike, which is what I do on the chrome top cover on my trans and the chrome engine covers as well as the wheels and heat shields.
I have no idea why I opened my mouth and wound up promoting a chrome starter, since that is not something I would normally spend extra money for. I think some of the chromaholics on this site have infected my brain. At least in this case it wouldn't cost you much (probably $100 difference between it and the stock one, the dealer should only charge the difference in the part price).
Anyhow, if you wanted to paint the new starter grey, doing it right would entail tearing the starter down so you could properly prep and paint the outer housing and other painted pieces. Just masking off a few spots and hitting the entire thing with a spray bomb could leave you with the same problem you have right now, peeling paint. The secret is always in the prep.
Jerry