[Shop-talk] [Bulk] abrasive blasting with a pressure washer

[Karl Vacek]

BTDT long ago with a set-up completely designed for this particular 
application.  As everyone else says, it's MESSY, but of course not as dusty 
as dry blasting.

An alternative (my favorite for this application) is Rust-Oleum "Extend". 
It's a latex-type of phosphoric acid product that you just paint on and let 
dry.  Knock off any loose rust first, but that's not a rigorous requirement 
at all - if it doesn't flake off too badly, it's fine.  I've put it on very 
rusty iron pario furniture and then neglected it for a year or more of 
Chicago weather, and it's held up fine.  Just paint right over it whenever 
you're ready.

Or if you feel that you really have to clean the steel before painting, why 
not just use an abrasive flap wheel on a drill followed by phosphoric acid 
(metal prep) ?

Karl




> Has anyone used one of these or something like it?
>
> http://www.tiny.cc/LXS9z
> We have metal steps at an apartment building that were replaced last fall, 
> too
> late to paint.  Now they need to be cleaned up and painted.  Will this 
> clean
> up the diamond plate and frame?  While adding new tools is always good, is
> there any place on a car restoration this could be used.
> Rich White St. Joseph, IL USA '63 TR3B TCF587L That ain't a scrap pile, 
> that
> is my car! See it moves!