Fixing minor trailer rust???

[jsz]

The rust around my diamond plate steps is getting bad. I'd like to stop the spread and repaint these spots. I figure that should last a few more years until the whole trailer needs a refurb. Have any of you tried this? What did you use?

[jsz]

I'm debating between sanding around the diamond plate or pulling it off and refinishing the whole area. Have any of you pulled off diamond plate? Were you able to get it off without ruining it?

[brody66]

If you are going to spend the time to do it, take off the plating for sure or it will last as long as it takes for the paint to dry before it is rusting again. Depending on the thickness of the plating it will bend but you should be able to straighten it and re-apply. Make sure you sand down to the point where all the metal is completley rust free, one small spot of corroded metal will pop back up, they make special primers just for rust repair but dont know it they work any better.

[2whlin]

There are several products you can get at your local big box store that you can spray on and will stop the rust. It will take it down to bare metal then all you need to do is light sand, prime and paint.

[hoopykat]

My diamond plates came off on their own; SBT (Sport Boat Trailers) used crappy adhesive. I lost two in lakes but was able to purchase replacements from SBT. I mounted them with stainless steel nuts and bolts after drilling through the DP and the fenders/step plates, and sealing the holes with silicone to help avoid rust. Two years and so far so good.

-Mike

[jsz]

Thanks guys. I'm also wondering if there is any paint I can use that is better than spray paint.

[Pro-Fab]

I would get one of those hand held sand blasters from harbor freight, use aluminum oxide and sand blast the entire fender and re finish it. if your fenders are removable I would just take them off and have them powdercoated. they should sandblast them for you.