How to Remove Rust From a Trailer

Rust most commonly appears on steel and metal surfaces, making it a real issue for a majority of trailer owners. If allowed to sit for too long, rust will often lead to more serious equipment damage and pricey repairs down the line. To learn how to remove rust from your trailer before it gets out of control, read our helpful guide below.

Tools You Need

In order to remove rust from your trailer’s metal surfaces, you’ll need to purchase a few handy tools to help get the job done. For heavy rust stains, you’ll need to find a wire brush as well as some rust remover spray to get the majority of the chemical off your trailer. For lighter rust spots you can substitute some vinegar and sandpaper to get the job done. If your trailer has been rusted to the point of corrosive damage, you may also need to find a rust converter and some metal scraps to help repair your trailer once the build-up has been removed.

Removing Rust

To remove rust from your trailer’s metal surfaces, you’ll first need to apply your rust remover spray or white vinegar to the afflicted area. These products may need to sit for quite some time depending on how heavy the rusting is, so we recommend checking back after 30 minutes or so to see what remains. If you’re lucky, the rust may be removed completely by these products. If not, you’ll need to use your sandpaper or wire brush to physically remove the rest of the rust.

Once the last of the rust has been removed use an old rag to remove any grease or oil that’s been left behind by your cleaning products. If your trailer has any corroded spots you’ll want to patch these with some scrap metal and a welding tool. If you need to repaint your trailer after removing the majority of the rust, don’t forget to apply a rust converter product to keep it from happening again.

If rust has damaged some of your trailer’s sensitive parts or components, they may need to be replaced entirely. To make sure you find the parts you need to keep your trailer in good shape, be sure to visit us here at FJM Truck & Trailer Center in San Jose, California. We offer a wide variety of helpful trailer parts and accessories for you to choose from, and proudly serve the nearby city of Campbell, California.