Small Rust spot near Trunk

[BlackThunder]

Any suggestions on how to stop rust from spreading? I have a little rust spot near my trunk lid that is about a half of an inch long. Do I sand it down with sand paper and then cover it with touch up paint? I'd like to do this before winter officially hits. We've already had some snow in MN.

Dustin

'97 850

[billofdurham]

Do I sand it down with sand paper and then cover it with touch up paint?

Never use sand paper on a car body unless you are rubbing down filler. On paintwork always use wet and dry paper with plenty of water.

How big is the damaged area - a scratch or larger? Bear in mind that if rust has started to show it could be spreading under the paint and you may be facing a bigger job than it appears.

You need to get the rust off and I always find a Dremel or similar tool, with the correct size stone, is handy for that. Don't put too much pressure on. You could then treat the area with a rust cure liquid but don't believe the manufacturers' claims as they are not a permanent cure. At this stage you could apply two or three coats of primer with a brush and then finish off with two or three coats of top coat. That will keep the weather out for the winter.

If you want a more permanent repair you need to build up the damaged part so it is just slightly proud of the surrounding paintwork. Do this with several coats of high build primer on a brush allowing each to dry thoroughly before applying the next. To help with the drying process use either a hair dryer or, if you are adventurous, a hot air gun. I use the latter but keep it moving so it doesn't take the paint off again. Once you have the primer to the correct depth gently (not too much pressure) rub it down with a very fine grade, minimum 1,000 grit, wet and dry paper with plenty of water. You only need to rub it back so it is level with the surrounding paint. Now apply the top coats. If the spot isn't too big you could brush it on or, for a larger area, use an aerosol. Dry each coat with the hot air gun before applying the next. Now forget about it for 4 - 6 weeks then give the whole panel a rub down with a fine cutting compound.

When doing repairs of this type never mask off any of the panel on which you are working. Mask off adjoining panels, windows, handles, trims etc if there is a possibility of paint overspray on to them.

Bill.

[BlackThunder]

Thanks, Bill. That is very descriptive and helpful. The area is only about 1 inch long (vertically) and on the right side of the trunk lid opening near the back 850 logo. I should have added a picture. I will be taking your advice so the rust doesn't spread. This is the only rust that I have seen (knock on wood).

Dustin