Trunk Restoration.

[Denis]

I've been facing a similar problem myself on a low mileage unrestored car. A previous owner had installed a trunk mat and trapped water caused surface rust in the trunk. Ideally, I'd like a way to remove the rust but leave the original trunk finish as-is.

I came across the following "Letter to the Editor" in the September 2003 issue of Auto Restorer. I haven't tried what this gentlemean is suggesting but I plan to do so as it seems he has a solution to my problem:

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I would like to address a question from John Adams in the May Mechanic on Duty column pertaining to rust removal with muriatic acid.

Muriatic acid is primarily used for cleaning concrete floors and works quite well. However, for automotive use, I use oxalic acid. It was the active ingredient in radiator fast flush before the environmental revolution.

I buy it in 25Kg sacks and mix about 2 or 3 tablespoons of the granules with a gallon of water to make the solution.

This stuff only eats rust. It won't damage paint, chrome, glass or skin (however, it is poisonous). I used to use it on old beer cans for my collection in my younger days and it would totally remove the rust but never harm the paint. It also works great for bathtub and toilet tank rust stains.

It may not be easy to find, however. I had to open an account with an industrial chemical supplier to get mine. However, 25Kg. of this stuff should last you a lifetime.

Bob Clayton
Power Accessory Restoration
Suwanee, Georgia


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P.S.: I need to double-check but I believe oxalic acid is the active ingredient in a fiberglass cleaning product called FSR (stands for Fiberglass Stain Remover) which is available at most retail boat supply shops.