Need your thoughts on frame stripping

[Greg L.]

I'm getting close to having my frame stripped and I was thinking of just sand blasting it...the problem will be getting INSIDE the frame. Then I thought I should get it dipped but I remember something about the acid weeping out of the seams long after tha fact. So.... what would you all recomend for stripping my frame. Thanks

[Bill W.]

Re: Need your thoughts on frame stripping

I have done both. I like dipping . I used ready strip & had no trouble with weeping..sand falls out forever...Bill

[Joe M.]

Re: Need your thoughts on frame stripping

Pick your poison they all work. I prefer sandblasting and use only triple 0 grit sand. Rent a big compressor and blaster for a half a day. A small compressor will work but takes forever, perfect for small parts though.

Rust comes off like loose, fresh mud being sprayed with a garden hose. Technique is very important with a big compressor as the pressurized sand held in one spot can cause damage. So be aware of what experience the individual who will be blasting your frame has, if you don't blast it yourself.

There are certain parts of the frame that are prone to rust thru. These for the most part have accesss holes. and would be the only spots I'd worry about. Your going to keep your vette garaged, the rusted frames are the result of decades of exposure to driving in all weather and actually being used as a regular car. Blast the inside areas you can reach and use a liquid product poured inside the rails before/after you cover what you can with an etching primer and paint. Alternatively spray in a heavy coat of a 90 weight oil. With whatever liquid rust converter or oil you use tilt the frame so the material covers all aspects of the inside rails.

Unless your frame is paper thin now, any attempt with whatever product, will preserve the frame "forever" unless the blaster goes wild. Don't know about the acid but any acid can be neutralized and flushed. It might be a good alternative to blasting if appropriate care is taken after the dip and you can cover all the inside areas with a Picklex or etching primer/paint. Frames are tough and carefree unless they are weak or damaged. Garaged and babied even a frame wired brushed and hit with Krylon will last longer than the owner.