Posted 2009-04-02 5:52 PM (#102670) Subject: How to fix cancer-rust on the nose of trailer?
Veteran
Posts: 100
Location: Arkansas
If I plan on keeping and fixing my '87 WW, it will need some cancer-rust through in area's fixed (safely).
It has rust through the nose of the trailer, right where the mangers sit.I am wondering what is the best way to fix that?
I plan on removing the old mangers and re-cutting and welding for new ones.But I am wondering what you would do if it was your trailer to fix the outside nose area?
P.S. -If anyone happens to know where I can find a (1996 to 2000 model) "Trail Magic" 2H straight load bumper pull trailer, please let me know.Thanks
Posted 2009-04-02 7:09 PM (#102672 - in reply to #102670) Subject: RE: How to fix cancer-rust on the nose of trailer?
Expert
Posts: 5870
Location: western PA
Cut, replace and weld as much new sheet metal as necessary, to repair the rusted through areas. Wherever there is surface rust, sand as much away as possible, or if you have access to a small sandblaster, erode these areas with various types of media.
All the rest of the surfaces will have to be sanded, and how well they are faired, will determine how smooth your final paint's surface will become. A rust converter will be needed wherever rust was encountered, then a body filler generically called Bondo is used to smooth the surface. A good primer is then applied and wet sanded, then your final colour choice will finish the job.
They make stainless and aluminum replacement panels that fit part of the standard half round trailer fronts. If the bottom half of your trailer's front is pretty ugly, adding one of these will quickly enhance its appearance with little effort.
It takes a bit of effort to do a nice paint job on a rusted steel trailer. The preparation is time consuming, and the final paint will show any short cuts that were taken. It is not a project that provides instant gratification, as there is nothing instant about it. However, when you pull the tape and paper, and see your "new" trailer, you will realize an instant amount of pride for your well done job.