Deep rust pits

Slowpoke:

Have you thought about using electrolysis? A plastic Wal-Mart storage container, some lye or washing soda, a piece of scrap steel, and a 12 volt battery charger will convert all of that red rust into inert black oxide probably in a day, two at most. You'll have it totally grease, oil, rust, and paint free, ready for some epoxy primer, and the filler will out live you.

I have a write up on my web site if you're interested. Look under "Restoration Tips".

Frank-in-Tallahassee
70D // 855 // VAC
wb8ens@aol.com

• F-I-T's webpage.....ALWAYS under construction....

ANYTHING will work. It's just a question of how well and for how long :o). If sandblasting is not an option for you I would recommend a rust treatment such as "Extend" marketed under both Loctite and Permatex brands. The Permatex version is available at NAPA stores. I would not use the general phosphoric acid treatment in your case. I have had good success with the phosphoric treatment but only in light surface or flash rust situations. I think serious remaining, tightly adherent, rust is better treated with a product like "Extend". I am not sure why you desire a smooth surface on the inside. After all, it will not show when the tire is installed. If you do use bondo for cosmetic purposes, it should be done after any treatment of the remaining rust. If a product like extend is used the resulting surface should be scuffed with a coarse scotchbrite pad after curing and prior to the bondo. I wouldn't just put the bondo on over the present surface as you describe it without some kind of further prep.

Rod