The rust resistance of today’s cars is much higher than that of cars from 30 years ago, and many manufacturers provide extensive corrosion guarantees. However, even if it’s not as frequently required as it previously was, rust prevention is still a maintenance task that every car owner needs to keep an eye on. Rust may eat away at body panels on the inside and outside, damaging a vehicle’s structural integrity and seriously jeopardizing safety if even the smallest spot of surface rust is allowed to spread.
It’s a typical issue as cars age, and many owners have simply accepted the reality that there is nothing they can do about it. Simply said, that is untrue. Rust is unavoidable but allowing it to spread is not. You can simply fix rusted-out patches without sanding anything down and prevent them from growing worse with any rust converters and inhibitors.
This is why in this article, I’ll be listing the best rust converters and inhibitors you should be considering when you notice any rust in your car. Note that this post is not sponsored, all rust converters and inhibitors are based on the top-performing products in today’s industrial market.
So, let’s dive in!
Contents
Best rust converters and inhibitors
The followings are the best rust converters and inhibitors you should be considering:
- Rust-Oleum Rust Reformer Spray
- Corroseal Water-Based Rust Converter
- FDC Rust Converter Ultra
- TotalBoat Rust Primer Converter
- Evapo-Rust Super Safe Rust Remover
- Permatex 81849-12PK Rust Treatment
- POR-15 45404 Rust Preventive Coating
- PlastiKote 624 Rust Converter
Read more: How to prevent rust on car in winter
Rust-Oleum Rust Reformer Spray
The Rust-Oleum brand must be included on any list of the best rust treatment products. The Rust Reformer Spray from Rust-Oleum transforms rust into a flat, paintable surface that is protective and may be used on any metal surface. Within 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the environment, it is dry, and 24 hours after being sprayed, it has entirely cured. Applying Rust-Oleum Rust Reformer to surfaces that will reach temperatures beyond 200 degrees Fahrenheit is not advised.
Spraying this reformer spray in overlapping strokes creates a dense coating that performs best. Spray while moving the can to prevent paint from pooling or running. The “any angle” spray comfort tip allows you to apply the reformer from any direction to coat even the most hard-to-reach areas. A primer coat is advised once the finish has dried to level it out before painting.
Read more: Lists of Best LED Lights for Car Interior
Corroseal Water-Based Rust Converter
Professionals frequently hail Corroseal as one of the most successful products on the market, indicating that the additional cost is more than justified. It’s practically unheard of to need more than two applications, even for medium rust projects.
Corroseal stands out from other goods due to its viscosity. Even though Corroseal is thicker than the other products, spraying might still occur. In terms of performance, it has a few benefits over the other items because of its thickness. The first benefit of Corroseal is that it won’t require as frequent application as other rust converters. In most circumstances, one application will be sufficient, but two applications will produce even greater results.
The performance, though, frequently depends on a better start. Corroseal does not function well with shingle metals, even though it works well with mediumly corroded metal. The narrow area between flaky rust is difficult to slide a thicker rust converter into. This rust converter is among the simplest to clean because all you need is soap and water.
Read more: Lists of Best LED Headlights
FDC Rust Converter Ultra
Through the transformation of rust into an inert coating and the prevention of moisture leakage back in, the FDC Ultra Rust Converter combats all types of rust and corrosion that develop on metal surfaces. The firm claims that no sandblasting, sanding, or scraping of the rusty surface is necessary, however, to obtain the best value for your money, we nevertheless advise lightly cleaning or descaling major problem areas.
One gallon covers 500 square feet, but a second coat is advised for maximum rust-stopping effectiveness once the first coat dries to a black finish, often within 20 minutes. Skip the primer and use a high-quality oil-based paint finish to complete the repair after the 48-hour cure period has passed. Though there’s not enough time to test the product to its full capacity, PDC does provide a 30-day money refund guarantee if their product doesn’t cut it.
Read more: Lists of Best Engine Antifreeze and Coolant Fluids
TotalBoat Rust Primer Converter
Similar to most rust converters, the TotalBoat Rust Primer adheres to certain standards. The most widely used ingredient in rust converters is phosphoric acid, which serves as the foundation of this product. Additionally, TotalBoat Rust Primer is sprayable from a regular spray bottle and is not offered in aerosol cans.
But you should think about a few things before buying this item. The first thing you should be aware of is the toxicity of TotalBoat Rust Primer. Additionally, compared to Permatex, TotalBoat Rust Primer has a significantly more acidic phosphoric acid base. Since having TotalBoat Rust Primer on your skin might result in redness and burning, wearing protective clothing is virtually a necessity.
TotalBoat Rust Primer is more thorough than any of its rivals despite being rather thin. Depending on how many coats you use, you can obtain up to 500 square feet of coverage from a gallon of paint, depending on the project.
With its phosphoric acid-based recipe, TotalBoat Rust Primer can be used as a primer on bare metal in addition to converting rust. When a phosphoric acid-based rust converter dries to bare metal, it typically stays tacky or flakes off. TotalBoat Rust Primer thus offers a higher level of adaptability.
Read more: Lists of Best Car Rental Companies
Evapo-Rust Super Safe Rust Remover
A water-based product called Evapo-Rust Rust Remover is harmless for the environment and won’t damage most paints, PVC, or plastic. It is non-toxic, safe to use on household goods including cast-iron cookware, grill grates, tools, and antiques, and convenient to dispose of.
It’s vital to note that all oils, grease, and debris must be thoroughly removed for this solution to function effectively. Some customers have complained that their rusty metal had to soak in the treatment for too long to be effective. The area should also be wire-brushed. Reapply Evapo-Rust as necessary after letting it sit on the trouble spot for 24 to 48 hours. Because it is reusable, the device also works well for soaking smaller items in a tub. After removal is finished, rinse and dry the metal thoroughly before priming it to protect it from moisture.
Read more: Lists of best car insurance companies
Permatex 81849-12PK Rust Treatment
The fact that Permatex uses a different chemical than the other products is one of its main distinctions. Formic acid, as opposed to phosphoric acid, is used in Permatex’s rust converter. Formic acid has the advantage of being less hazardous than other products, yet it is by no means non-toxic. Formic acid exposure to people is also less dangerous overall, even if it gets in their eyes or on their skin.
When it comes to converting rust, formic acid is less successful than phosphoric acid. Although formic acid-based rust converters have several drawbacks in comparison to phosphoric acid-based converters, this does not imply that Permatex is a subpar product.
One of Permatex’s biggest drawbacks is that, unlike many of its rivals, it does not safeguard the treated metal without subsequent treatments. While Permatex metal is lucky to last six months untreated, phosphoric acid-based rust converters frequently function for over a year without additional treatment.
Furthermore, it is not possible to apply Permatex to a project, use it, filter it out afterward, and then add the leftovers back to the task at the end. As a result, the quality of the remaining rust converter will decline as it is activated. In any case, Permatex greatly simplifies the process of creating a project after the initial application.
Read more: Lists of Best Car Buffers/Polishers
POR-15 45404 Rust Preventive Coating
It’s tough to beat POR-15 Rust Preventative Coating, which has long been a favorite among owners of classic cars in snowy and damp climates. Metal is shielded from moisture by the hard, non-porous surface that remains after drying. The product passed a 2,000-hour salt spray test and has been tested at temperatures over 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, it is resistant to acids and alkalis and deflects fuels and oils.
POR-15 works best on prepared and thoroughly cleaned metal surfaces, like other products. It is highly advised to use a respirator and protective skin, clothing, and accessories because this substance is not human- or environmentally friendly. No additional primer or paint is required unless you want a painted finish or the surface will be exposed to the sun for an extended period. Consider using the POR-15 three-step approach for results that last.
Read more: Lists of best car battery
PlastiKote 624 Rust Converter
If you are worried about toxicity, this PlastiKote liquid might appeal to you. Water-based formulations are safe for the environment, non-flammable, and toxic-free. As stated on the label, this product releases dangerous vapors, so it is advised that you use it in a well-ventilated location.
You can apply this liquid with a brush or a roller. It will stain, so you should be careful not to get any on your skin or clothing. Do not be put off by the thin coats’ watery consistency. You won’t have to be concerned about running out of this solution when treating numerous or larger corroded places.
PlastiKote is an ideal solution for vehicle owners who value a faultless paint finish. When the liquid dries, it won’t foam or bubble and will create a seal akin to shellac. It can either be sanded down so that your primer and paint will go on easily or primed and painted right away after curing. Additionally, there are few chances of bleeding through.
Read more: Lists of best motorcycles for beginners and experts
Rust Converters and Inhibitors FAQs
What is the most effective rust converter?
The following are some other best rust converters and inhibitors:
- FDC Rust Converter Ultra- 1 gallon.
- Corroseal Water-Based Rust Converter.
- Permatex 81849-12PK Rust Treatment.
- VHT SP229 Rust Convertor Can.
- TotalBoat Rust Primer Converter.
- PlastiKote 624 Rust Converter.
- Skyco Ospho Surface Prep.
- MRO Chem Black Star Rust Converter.
Are rust converters any good?
If you select a rust converter that penetrates deeply into the rust and you clean the metal surface by the product instructions, it will be very effective.
Read more: Lists of best garage heater
Which is the best rust remover or rust converter?
Use a rust converter if you intend to paint the thing someday, such as if it is a fence rail, an automobile body part, or a storage tank. Utilizing a rust converter and primer in one is even better because you only need to apply one layer.
Is Corroseal the best rust converter?
The ideal method for removing rust is corroseal since it is more cost-effective, quicker, and more ecologically friendly than sandblasting. By chemically transforming rust from iron oxide to magnetite, a dark and inert material, Corroseal avoids the need to sandblast rust.
When should you not use a rust converter?
When the temperature is between 50 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit, apply the product. It’s advised to stay away from using Rust Converter in bright sunshine or extremely moist environments. If the surface temperature is below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, do not apply.
Do you sand after the rust converter?
There is no need to sand or wipe clean the surface before painting (unlike some other products). However, if you notice any toffee-colored regions, it’s most likely FE-123 that hasn’t experienced any corrosion.
How long do you leave the rust converter on?
While the rust converter dries in 20 minutes, curing takes 24 hours. A second coating will be applied to guarantee proper rust conversion. Wait 48 hours after the final coat before adding an oil-based top coat to give it enough time to cure.
Does Rustoleum rust converter work?
The Gempler is produced in the USA. Hold the can 8 to 12 inches off the ground. Add a little coat of spray to the surface. Then watch it do its magic.
Can you leave the rust converter unpainted?
No. If you would like a different color than black after applying Rust Converter, use oil-based paint because it will also withstand weather, sunlight, rain, and even salt spray without peeling or breaking. You are not required to paint after applying Rust Converter.
Read more: Lists of best garage floor paints
Do you need to sand before using a rust converter?
A good surface is crucial for the highest-quality results, and Promain and well-known paint manufacturers like PPG always advise using sandblasting. Rust will be removed by sandblasting, leaving behind a sturdy, spotless surface.
That is all for this article, where the lists of the best rust converters and inhibitors are discussed. I hope you get a lot from the reading, if so, kindly share with others. Thanks for reading, see you around!
