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Keeping your commercial truck rust-free is an important part of its upkeep, especially when it comes to the truck’s frame. If left unaddressed, the frame can become so weak that the truck is unsafe to drive, leaving you to deal with a total frame replacement. The replacement processes can be expensive and time-consuming, so understanding how to fix and prevent rust on a truck frame is valuable for your operations.
Depending on the extent of the rust, truck frame rust removal can be a simple task or a highly complex project that requires an expert. Always start by evaluating the rust damage before attempting to repair the issue yourself. This way, you can save yourself from attempting a complicated and potentially unsafe job and get it right the first time with professional help.
Here are the basic steps on how to fix rust on a truck frame:
Before starting the project, evaluate the severity of the damage the rust has caused to the frame. This evaluation will enable you to estimate the resources and time needed to do the job.
Take your time when looking around the truck’s frame, using a flashlight to help you catch rusted areas that might be hard to see otherwise. It may be necessary to remove the mud flaps and some other parts of the truck.
If you suspect the damage is extensive or you aren’t confident in your abilities to inspect the truck yourself, it’s always beneficial to have a professional truck inspection to locate the areas of concern. This way, you know exactly what you’re dealing with and can make an informed decision about your next steps.
If the rust is minimal, you may be able to remove it yourself. Some of the tools you’ll need for fixing a rusted truck frame include:
Once you’ve collected the necessary tools, it’s time to start the actual truck frame rust removal process. To remove rust from the frame, you can use a grinder or wire brush wheel. These tools will help you get most of the rust out of the frame. Use 80-grit sandpaper to remove stubborn rust that your wire brush wheel or grinder couldn’t remove. To smoothen the surface, use 400-grit sandpaper.
There are some rust remover products that can help you remove small occurrences of rust more easily. For example, you may only need to remove loose rust and then spray the product on the affected area. The product will create a durable surface that prevents future rust growth, and you don’t have to do any excessive brushing or sanding.
Whichever method you choose, work slowly to ensure you eliminate all the rust on your truck. Remember to wear safety gear like goggles and a respiratory mask to protect yourself from flying particles.
After removing the rust and smoothing the surface, the next step is to wash the frame using water and a mild detergent. Avoid heavy cleaners that can damage the frame.
A thorough washing will remove excess debris and help you spot any remaining rust on the frame. Rinse the frame after washing, letting it dry completely before going to the next step.
Inspect the frame again to find any rust you may have missed initially. Depending on your desired outcome after completing your truck frame rust removal project, you may have to repeat steps 4 and 5 more than once.
If you find that rust has created small holes in the frame, you may be able to use body filler to fill the holes. However, body filler is only safe for small holes — do not use it on large cracks or holes. These bigger gaps require immediate professional attention, as they indicate a serious safety problem with the frame.
After filling and sanding any tiny holes, wash the frame again to remove dust.
Wait for the frame to dry before applying the primer. This product will help protect the metal from future rust and corrosion as a preventive measure. Simply follow the instructions on your chosen primer to complete the application process.
Once the primer has dried completely, the rust removal process is complete.
As you remove rust from the frame, you may also have to make some repairs. For example, the large holes that cannot be fixed by applying body filler will need a better solution to make the truck safe to drive.
Some repairs involve welding the rusted truck frame. For example, you may have to add gussets to strengthen the angle of the frame, or even weld a cracked frame. However, welding is a step you should leave to a commercial truck repair professional. Any mistake in the welding process can risk the integrity of your truck, only causing further issues.
Once you’ve removed the rust from your truck frame, you want to take steps to prevent future rust. Remember, rust on any vehicle frame is cause for concern, as it can spread quickly, rapidly affecting the vehicle’s structure and overall safety. It’s important to take rust prevention seriously to avoid complicated corrosion issues with your truck.
Here are some quick tips for preventing rust on the frame:
Removing rust from your truck frame ensures it’s in good condition for road use. Whether you’re dealing with a small rust issue or are concerned about your truck frame’s integrity, Thompson Truck Solutions can assist. Serving Alabama and Northwest Florida, we’re your go-to local truck experts, ready to assist with all of your commercial truck repair and maintenance needs.
Our team of knowledgeable technicians will assess the issue, make the appropriate fixes, and get your truck back to you quickly. Learn more about our semi-truck repair services and how we can complete comprehensive truck frame rust repair. Contact your closest location to get started.
