Replies

1. 
   Piffin | Nov 09, 2004 12:54am | #1

   Properly galvanized hardware will not rust. More cheaply done plating is the electroplate in stead of hot dipped. if it is smooth and shinny originally, it was probably the electroplated zince coating.

   Auto shops have a product that converts rust into a black coating that can then be painted over.

   If it is minor rust on surface so far, you can etch it off by washing/scrubbing with white vinegar and a steel brush or a scriubby from the kitchen sink. Then rinse thoroughly and be ready to paint right away with the rustoleum as soon as it is dry and before it has time to begin glazing over again.

   For futre prevebntion beyond the paint surface, or with other hardware like this, you can buy spray wax coatings from a woodworkers supply store that is also a lubricate called Boeshield B-9. It was formulated by Boeing for deicing and protecting the metal surfaces of its aircraft. I use it on my tablesaw and shoe of my circular saw.

    

    

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1. 
   jyang949 | Nov 09, 2004 02:10am | #2

   Thanks, Piffin. I had to replace both the gate and the hardware, and they have been exposed to the elements for only two weeks. We had a ton of rain, although there is no sign of rust.

   I'm glad it won't require painting...don't care for the look of housepaint on metal.

   Janet

2. 
   JohnSprung | Nov 09, 2004 03:15am | #3

   Here's what I've been using:

   http://www.chesterton-marine.com/TechnicalProducts/MarineRustConverter/

   Bought a gallon of it about 30 years ago for $55, still have maybe a pint left.  It converts the red iron oxide of rust to the stable blue/black oxide, the same compound as blued steel hardware.

   -- J.S.