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Subject:Re: Rust Repairs
From:Frank Condelli
Date:Wed, 17 Dec 2003 06:13:31 EST

In a message dated 17/12/2003 12:05:58 AM Eastern Standard Time,
LISTSERV@GERRY.VANAGON.COM writes:
Before having the painting done, I
would consider pulling the interior and taking a drive up to Windsor, ON to
Krown Rust Treatment.
        It would be much better to have the Krown treatment AFTER the paint
work is done.  The Krown will prevent the paints & primers from penetrating
into the seams.  All rusted areas and seams need to be cleaned properly.  The
lower seams which usually have the rusting problem need to be cleaned of the seam
sealer as best possible, using small wire brushes, picks, wires or whatever
works.  Do not replace the seam sealer.  Leaving the seams open allows for the
Krown to travel there. These areas should then be flooded with rust converter
or etching compound, if using POR-15, then top coated with a rust inhibiting
primer or paint such as POR-15. You must follow the directions of the product
you choose to use, my preference is POR-15, but there are others that work.
Then the proper primers, primer sealers and finishing paints applied THEN do the
Krown treatment.
    Get behind as many panels as possible to clean up the rust and do the
Krown treatment.  The rusting you see on the outside is just the tip of the ice
berg.  Always a bigger problem on the other side.  This seam rusting is
primarily caused by condensation on the inner walls of the vehicle and is much more
prevalent on the camper models which are insulated with Fiberglas batting which
retains this moisture.  To do a really perfect job, all this insulation
should be removed and replaced with a non moisture retention type of insulation
such as styrofoam.

Happy Holidays !

Frank Condelli
Almonte, Ontario, Canada
BusFusion a VW Camper camping event, Almonte, ON, June 10 ~ 13, 2004
'87 Westy & Lionel Trains
Member: Vanagon List, LiMBO, IWCCC & CCVWC
Vanagon/Vanagon Westfalia Service in the Ottawa Valley
STEBRO/Vanagon Stainless Steel Mufflers
Frank Condelli & Associates or http://frankcondelli.com