cleaning galvanized parts

mike b.

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Jan 28, 2002
Messages
37
what is the best solution to clean galvanized trailer parts/wheels with?What is good for removing rust from fiberglass?Finally,is it safe to use stainless steel hardware(ubolts,etc)on galvanized trailers?How come Ive never seen this?
 

John Carpenter

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Nov 1, 2002
Messages
336
Re: cleaning galvanized parts

Metals are usually cleaned with an acid of one sort or another, however most any acid of any strength will eat the galvanizing off in a heartbeat. You might try vinegar & water about half & half in an inconspicous area. Depends on the type soil you are trying to remove. Best bet might be a general purpose degeaser like Simple Green or Purple Power from Wally World.<br />There are several commercial products available from marine stores for removing rust from whatever. Best is oxalic acid, a white crystalline powder or hydroflouric acid which is usually the active ingredient in your average mag wheel cleaner. If you are worried about galvanic corrosion between the stainless fittings and the galvanized trailer use a rubber or cork gasket between them...or bedding compound if appropriate.
 

SCO

Lieutenant
Joined
Aug 19, 2001
Messages
1,463
Re: cleaning galvanized parts

Ive wondered the same thing about stainless and galv. Thee zinc is more anodic, so should not be a problem of corrosion. I bet that the zinc should also protect the common steel fittings as it corrodes first. I think I'll tighten all the loose fasteners to the galvanized parts. It does seem like the loose fittingd are the worst corroded.
 
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