Rust on Rims

Sunline1 · 08-12-2008, 06:43 PM

My 2002 Sunline model#2975, with 15X5 in steel (white) factory rims are getting some rust on them generally around the triangular holes between the center and outside edge of the rims.

Is there anything you can do to clean up/get rid of the rust, without painting the rims ? Anything to just make them look a little better ? Any info appreciated.

Thanks

Sunline1

**Sunline Fan** · 08-12-2008, 08:16 PM

I'd just put a good coat of paste wax on the inside and outside and hope it doesn't get any worse. I think that's about all you can do besides repainting or replacing. I've not had good luck with repainting wheels in the past. They look great initially, but it doesn't last like the original baked-on coating does.

Jon

Hematite · 08-12-2008, 08:45 PM

What Jon says is true. You can clean them up and use rattle can paint on them and they look pretty good. Doesn't last as long as factory paint.

I think that the reason the factory paint doesn't hold up longer is because they just use paint and no primer. I've had good luck removing the tires, sandblasting the rusted areas, priming with an automotive grade Trio (acid etch, primer, surfacer) and coating with hardened automomotive enamel. Holds up better than the factory paint especially if you put them out in the sun after you paint them (bake the paint).

If theyre not too bad yet, you may want to try to put Por15 on the rusted areas and paint over the Por15 with some white Rustoleum. It might not be georgeous but it will stop the rust.

Sunline1 · 08-13-2008, 05:32 AM

Thanks for the info. Guess I just wax them for now, and live with it.
Sunline1

Hvolt1 · 08-13-2008, 08:19 AM

I have the begginings of the same problem with my 2006.I was thinking of trying to locate some of the exact aluminum factory rims for my T-1950.Is the anyone that would know which company supplied the aluminum rims.I guess It would amost be impossible to find some used factory rims since my camper is too new.

Jason Z · 08-13-2008, 08:46 AM

I would suggest waiting till the season is over and having the wheels powder coated. I have had the bumpers on my Jeep, wheels on my old Harley, etc. and they all still look like new years later. Usually a motorcyle shop or hot rod shop can hook you up with someone close by that can do it.