I have about a 3x6" section on the under part of my rear bumper right above the exhaust that is rusted. It hasn't pitted or anything yet 'cause its still smooth to the touch...should I use steel wool or something?

How do I get that off without screwing up the chrome finish and also, what can I use on the bumpers and the ENTIRE undercarriage as an overall rust preventative? And, can I do that myself? Thanks guys!!!

 

yea I just found out that the hood mount for my has scratched the paint off the side of my hood, and rust is already starting there.

Basically would I just try to sand it down, and then use some touch-up paint? I can't really use rustoleum because it's such a small spot, but I don't want it to spread. Anybody?

 

Yeah, I was thinking about using Rustoleum myself but wasn't sure if that was safe for the chrome or not.

Lemme know if you guys find anything.

 

http://www.toyotaoffroad.com/

check this site out it has some sweet do-it yourself rust prevention and care tips. check under the features section.

 

Thanks man.

The only problem is that this rust is on chrome...if I sand it off, I'm not sure what to but pack on there except for maybe a clear coat rust preventative or something.

Not sure yet, any more ideas would be awesome!

 

The inside of my chrome bumpers was starting to rust out as well but wasn't all the way through. I went to the local auto store and got some general rust converter. Its main ingredient is phosphoric acid which not only turns the rust back into metal, but also adds a layer of iron phosphate to the surface to help protect the metal beneath. This is what I use on all my undercarriages. When that cures in a day or so, I coat it with some rubberized underspray. Altogether, its easy and fairly inexpensive ($5/ bottle or can for rust converter, $5 can for rubberized underspary). Also, you don't end up taking off good metal while removing the rust. FY!, the rustconverter will stain paint/metal so avoid getting it on the crhome.

Edit: Sorry, I didn't notice the rust is on the chrome part. In that case, I would try waxing it out. If that doesn't work, which it probably won't, your only other option to get it rust free and looking nice is removing the bumper, removing the rust, repainting and reinstalling (at least that's what I woudl do).

 

Careful with that method. For tiny spots it's ok, but if you don't sand it al,l or paint it while it's dirty it will help the rust spread more quickly.

Try some rust-inhibiting spray. It primes the surface and prevents further rust. Spray, let dry & touch-up. No sanding necessary.

 

yeah I'm hoping to take care of it this weekend. Even though it's probably been sitting there for a few weeks already...

 

I found this rust remover gel at Walmart in the auto section. I dont remember the name and label is long gone. It's in a small white bottle and was only a couple of bucks.
Dab some on with a brush wait, a few minutes and it cleans it right off. I've used it on several things on the truck & around the house and its worked well.

 

Well I just got some CLR from Lowe's...I'm gonna try that on there and see how it does...I just need to find the time to do it!

Thanks for the replies guys, now I have some backup plans!!

 

I've used really fine steel wool on it (0000), but it always comes back. If your were to protect it somehow with maybe chrome polish or a wax, it might hold up OK.

The cure is a new custom rear bumper...

 

Well until I can fully cure it by getting that custom rear bumper...I got some steel wool...I think its 000 or 00 and some CLR.

What kind of clear coat protectant could I put on it in order to keep it form happening again? Thanks again man!

 

All I can add is 'Sand Like A MoFo!'. Get out the grinder if necessary. Pull the bumper off if possible. Anything that is even discolored has already been compromised. As for spray coatings - nothing sticks to chrome!!! If this is an area that receives constant impacts, consider some type of stick-on protector - but MAKE SURE ALL THE RUST IS GONE UNDERNEATH!!! I've used a product called 'Ski Saver' in the past. It's a thick, clear plastic; kind of like shelf paper; meant to keep snow and water skis looking new. Not sure if it's still on the market. As has been said before, the only 'Cure' is to get rid of the rusted part altogether. If an ARB or the like is out of the question, the stock bumper can be replaced (for looks only) pretty cheaply. Just search the net.