Topic: How can you prevent rust from spreading?

[canuk1969]

I purchased a used (1997) car last year and didn't see any rust. Now however I do    I suspect they had it painted over and I didn't notice it.

It's mostly around the wheel-well ( I think that's what it is called)

Is there a way to purchase something to spray on it so that it will prevent the rust from spreading?

Thanks so much

[mrthompson]

IMO, the best bet from a DIY standpoint is the following:

1.  Sand/grind away any rusted metal.
2.  Treat remaining rust/pits with muriatic acid (or similar rust removing agent)
3.  Fill the area with body fill as required.  Larger holes will require fibreglass (or Steel'y  ).
4.  Sand to smooth the surface.
5.  Prime and paint.
6.  If you vehicle isn't already a rust bucket, have it treated with a rust inhibitor the likes of Krown etc.

[canuk1969]

Thanks Mrthompson You sound very knowlegeable.

Now what if I'm a woman who knows nothing/zip/zero about cars...with a darling husband who knows about the same 

Any easy peesy solution?

[mrthompson]

Naw, I merely play a knowledgeable person at parties.   


A temporary solution would be to remove the worst of the rust with sand paper, then cover with touch up paint.  Can you provide a photo of the affected area?

[canuk1969]

Naw, I merely play a knowledgeable person at parties.   

Hee hee.

I sure can. But it will probably have to be tomorrow. I'll be sure to post then.

thanks again  <--- so cute!

[Slow_lane]

I suspect you or your husband are not inclined to do body work. Here is an easy fix.

If car is just got a bit of rust getting an chemical spray like Rust Check, Crown or Dura Check will certainly help stop the spread of rust.

I have started yearly treatment on older cars before and had success in keeping rust at bay.

Does not require you do anything expect makde an appoitment and get it done.

[barrie1]

Save some of your old flenallette bedsheets for nice polishing rags. Give the vehicle a bath and then give it a good waxing which also slows down the rust and makes the vehicle look much nicer to begin with . Keep the vehicle clean every week also helps keep the rustbugs away as well as the undercoating already mentuined. All these points together can keep a car in extremely good shape for years. 

[lampskin]

I would say keep your car in a garage or get a car cover to prevent moisture from sitting on the rust area.