Frame Rust Beneath Front Box

[Rossue]

I've had the front box off before to recoat it: https://www.escapeforum.org/forums/f...ing-19461.html

I have it off again as after I installed a new 7-pin plug with cable it became a case of "while I'm at it". I decided to repaint the A-Frame section as it over time gets a few rusts spots and I have used POR-15 in the past and now am going to use a product my local body shop prefers: Zero Rust. https://gemplers.com/products/zero-r...BoCUTkQAvD_BwE

Removed the front box and was a bit surprised at the rust on the frame where the support tab on the passenger side is. I showed this to a local welder and he said it is not a concern at this time and to prep & then use a rust converter and top coat.

Am wondering whether I should raise the box off the frame with some kind of washer or shim to help alleviate the colllection of water in that spot. It was visibly wet when I pulled the box off of it. I think it collects more on the passenger side as there is a slight slope in my driveway in that direction.

Anyway- wanted to share this as I can't be the only one. Has anyone mounted their box differently by using washers or shims where the bolts go through?

[Ron in BC]

Originally Posted by Rossue

Anyway- wanted to share this as I can't be the only one. Has anyone mounted their box differently by using washers or shims where the bolts go through?

I installed tapered wedges sitting on an EPDM gasket because I don't like the "falling forward" look. But I suspect if I removed the box I'd still find some rust like yours. I think the only way to prevent it would be to coat the frame with caulking and set the box on it. Otherwise, osmosis works quite well to let moisture in.

Ron

[CharlesinGA]

I like POR 15, however, it is not always the cure all. I have used a metal prep and chassis paint sold by Summit Racing that I am actually impressed with. The paint appears to be a high solids paint, so it makes a nice thick coat. I first used this on my RAM chassis where I cut off and carefully ground down, where a jackleg gooseneck hitch was welded to the frame. (it was an inverted section of channel iron.) I carefully ground and sanded down the welds without touching the original frame, and when done, I used the metal prep (actually a rust converter) and then the paint. Did a similar thing when I had new safety chain attachments welded to my Bigfoot.

Once you are done with the painting, I would spray (probably from underneath) some LPS3 or AmSOIL HD Metal Protectant into the "gap" between the flat attachment tab and the frame. From underneath this could be done on a continuing basis, once or twice a year, even spraying between the box and the frame inside and out. Just wipe off the excess that runs down the frame (for appearance).

Charles

Summit Racing Chassis Paint, I used Gloss Black

Summit Racing Rust Converter