I usually always powder coat the bases because they will get scuffed and chipped easily and powder coat is a lot tougher. It depends on the frame condition as to whether or not I completely disassemble it or not as well as the design of the frames. On the Erie 70 I am working on, the top and base both are cast iron so I ended up taking it all apart and will powder coat all of it. The 70 is a special baby to me so I want it all as good as I can get it. I'm not so picky on more common stuff.....GB