‘89 FJ62 Hidden Rust PSA (2 Viewers)

[quadrunner91]

I was installing my new rear hatch seal from @TRAIL TAILOR and found some severe rust along the bottom, under the old seal!

I’m not sure how one would go about properly repairing such a thin strip of metal, so I liberally greased the area and am hoping it’ll stop the rust for now!

The rear window washer hose leaked when I got the truck, and I’m guessing that’s how the moisture got behind the seal.

 

[Rodger1957]

I’d clean the grease off, wire brush and put some POR on it to convert and prevent more rust. The grease is going to attract and hold onto dirt, dust and nastiness. POR is available in most parts places.

 

[SteveH]

I suspect rain water and salt naturally settle there, and there's little you can do to prevent it. I would POR (or something) it, and then grease it and replace the seal. Unless it's a garage queen, it will rust again and get worse. Grease will at least permanently put it on hold until you do some more exotic restoration in the future.