Topic: Frame Rust

[Jeep4banger97]

I have a 1997 TJ with a 2.5l, and it has about 29,000 miles on it. The frame has its spots of rust and i would like to clean it up a bit over the summer when i get the chance and money, i was wondering what your guys opinions are on how i should apporach this. I was thinking sanding the frame rust and all down to bear metal, then using like a Hurciliner, or POR 15, or duraback to coat it and rust proof it, and then maybe paint my axels (black) after sanding those as well, i was wondering if you guys would have any suggestions to my plan.

Thanks John

[Jeffy]

How much rust?  I'm a bit supprised that a YJ with no little mileage would have more then surface rust.  I'd probably clean it up as much as possible then use navel jelly.  Cover with hammerite.

I don't like herc since the texture will grab dirt.  Por15's nice but goes on like tar unless you can spray it.  Duraback is herculiner but a bit smoother.

[Jeep4banger97]

Well its a TJ and it has been through many michigan winters, and has never been properly rustproofed, what would navel jelly do for it? Once i removed the rust then covered it with either hurciliner or hammerite or whatever would that rust proof it for good, if i prep it correctly?

[Jeffy]

Navel Jelly converts the rust to an inert black substance.  Not quite sure what is it actually.  If you clean it all out then it should be fine.

Oh another reason not to go with herc or durabak is that it does nothing to neutralize the rust.  Rust will still be under there and continue to eat at the metal.  I believe like Rustolium, Hammerite will convert the rust and not just cover it.  I sprayed my whole rear axle with hammered black.  It's a cool gunmetal color.

[Jeep4banger97]

Were can i buy navel Jelly at, and once i put it on do i remove it and then paint the frame?

[Jeffy]

You should be able to get it just about any car place.  You can even find it at KMart.  You apply it let it sit for a while then wash it off.  I'd go this a few times to make sure it's all gone then paint with good paint.

If the rust isn't too deep you could sand or wirewheel it smooth.  Problems happen if ti's deep.  You could end up punching a hole though the metal.

[Jeep4banger97]

thanks alot for the help, i dont think its very deep its just spotty, and i wanna clean it up

[jagular7]

My TJ came from OH and there is plenty of rust on a lot of places on the frame. I just took a ballpean and started to 'shave' the areas. There is lots of rust on the inside and it's just as layered. I took my hose and power washed the best I could the flakes towards a large hole in the frame. Just watch out for falling debris.....if you go this route.

Once you do all this, I suggest you remove, one at a time, the bolts holding the rear upper shocks on, the t-case crossmember, basically any bolt that goes through the frame. Once removed add some anti-sieze and replace. With all the road salt use and from just sitting, you'll have problems if you have to work on it, and replace just the simple things.