Power-washing skids?

[Krayziekid]

Hey guys. Just recently lifted my 4runner and I still have to put the factory skids back on (and re-tap a few holes unfortunately). I am planning on replacing my front and mid skid eventually, but definitely not now.

My current factory skids are nasty. They are rusty and covered in mud/dust, and I am wondering what the best way to clean them would be. I was thinking of simply taking a powerwasher to them and then using a few coats of some Rustoleum spray on them afterwards. Would that work, or would I somehow damage the skids? If it's a bad idea, how else should I clean it off so I can paint it? Thanks!

 

[smokey73]

I soaked mine with purple power and power washed them. I think I did it twice before they came good and clean, but looked new when I was done, but they weren't rusted.......'cause rust is stupid.....

 

[ARunner]

You can't hurt them with a power washer. Shoot them with some good degreaser and if you feel up to it knock off the rust and then paint.

 

[Krayziekid]

You can't hurt them with a power washer. Shoot them with some good degreaser and if you feel up to it knock off the rust and then paint.

Yea I'm thinking I'll just degrease, and then power wash the crap out of them, and then rustoleum over it. How would you suggest I go about getting some of the rust off of it? Thanks!

 

[ARunner]

That all depends on how bad the situation is. If you are going to be replacing them anyway I wouldn't spend too much time on them, as it will be labor intensive. But generally speaking, wire brushes (for harsher spots) and scotch-brite type pads, either hand or drill powered are good at taking minor rust off.

 

[Krayziekid]

That all depends on how bad the situation is. If you are going to be replacing them anyway I wouldn't spend too much time on them, as it will be labor intensive. But generally speaking, wire brushes (for harsher spots) and scotch-brite type pads, either hand or drill powered are good at taking minor rust off.

It's not too bad, but definitely something I would like to attempt. I'll try a wire brush in combination with the power washer. Not going to spend too much time on it. If the rust is too much or doesn't fully come off, its ok to just spray over it right?

 

[TrdLtly]

It's not too bad, but definitely something I would like to attempt. I'll try a wire brush in combination with the power washer. Not going to spend too much time on it. If the rust is too much or doesn't fully come off, its ok to just spray over it right?

Just use some Rust-Oleum Rust Reformer or similar. I have used this on several vehicles with great results.

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