Posted by Dave Horvath on Monday, September 03, 2007 at 12:28:40 :
A couple of us have been talking about methods of preserving sheet metal and original paint on trucks that will be used regularly. I have been experimenting with a couple different products.
The first is Rust Treatment available in a spray can from NAPA and other sources. This turns the rust from iron oxide to iron phosphate. I used a wire wheel brush to remove surface rust from the floor of the cab, then sprayed the Rust Treament on the entire floor. The rusty spots turned black and the original paint turned a nice satin gloss, really bringing out the color. The effect was similar to using a linseed oil finish on a fine piece of antique furniture. When rinsed with a hose a few days later, the treated floor completely repelled water.
The second method is a Kerosene bath. I used Kerosene to wipe down the firewall. The Kerosene removed the dirt and oil, and left the finish with a soft satin luster, similar to the rust treatment. I am thinking this would be a good method of soaking the original hood welt also to repel water. Possible downsides of this approach include a lingering smell and difficulty removing the solvent to apply paint or rust treatment in the future.
What are your thoughts on these approaches and other methods of preservation?
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