Rust Bullet Prep

[CMD82]

With all the resto treads currently going on, I have become inspired to do some much needed work on my rig. I just spent the last 2.5 hrs sanding the roof of the FJ60 with a DA sander and 120 grit. It feels pretty smooth. It is primarliy primer and bare metal. I plan purchased Rust Bullet auto formula along with the black top coat for my frame painting. I planned on rolling on Rust Bullet on the roof, however I am eventually going to paint the entire rig. I know Rust Bullet can be topcoated, does that mean that it needs to be sanded? If so with what grit, 220? Regardless of if I use it on the roof or not, what should I clean the roof with before the application of the Rust Bullet? I am concerned if I wash it down with the hose the bare metal will rust before I can paint it. My digital camera took a dump a couple months ago, so I don't have any pics.

Thanks for the help,
Chris

 

[CMD82]

ttt.... Come on fellas, I need to paint this today,what should I clean the roof with before the application of the Rust Bullet? I am concerned if I wash it down with the hose the bare metal will rust before I can paint it.

Thanks

 

[Scotty]

Just use a degreaser to wipe it all down well.

 

[1911]

Rust Bullet also makes a weak phosphoric acid spray-on solution to etch the metal a little bit. I've used it with good success on smaller parts/painting areas but not with a large area like a roof.

 

[Spike Strip]

You can use the etch-prep, from RB, or buy a similar one from HD -- It's good to do as it adds another layer of rust prevention, but not necessary for a good bond of the RB .. You've sanded and that provides a good surface.

Since the rest of the truck is painted, I'm not sure how'd you use the Etch prep with out it running down on the rest of the paint --- Don't know if it would discolor it or not...?

But be aware, also, there are temp limitations for application of RB, you have to paint above a certain temp that I don't remember now -- And use a good top coat. You do not need to sand RB for a top coat if you follow the 4-8 hr application timeline.

 

[CMD82]

Thanks guys. I have the etch-prep from Rust Bullet, so I wil use that. It says to wash down before painting. I guess I will just use some dawn soap and water. I originally purchased the RB to use on the frame. Should I just use some Rustoleum primer on the roof until I get the entire truck painted? I plan on preping the entire truck and then either paint myself or get someone to shoot it for me. I thought about leaving the entire truck sanded down to primer and bare metal until I am finished so I prime the entire thing at once, but do not want any rust to return before I can get the entire rig painted. It is garaged and out of the weather.

 

[Spike Strip]

Which RB do you have? The Alum undercoat or the Black Shell ?

Either one can be top-coated with Rustoleum -- I did that in a few places. Works fine. Actually I used Krylon rust tough

If you have the RB Automotive Silver undercoat, be careful when stirring - it's easy to get bubbles in it.

Good luck. That RB Automotive is damn tough stuff.

 

[CMD82]

Thanks Spike - I have the Alum undercoat and the black shell. For the roof, I will just use the Alum undercoat. Cool, since the RB can be topcoated with Rustoleum primer or any type of primer i will just roll the roof and move on with the rest of the body.

Thanks for the tips.
Chris

 

[BinaryDude]

I just got my samples in to try:

I'll post the results in a few days.