How to Get Rust Off of a Steel Wheel
Carbon steel is prone to rusting. When a steel object, such as a wheel, comes into contact with water, moisture or high humidity, rust forms. Removing rust from a metal wheel is important if the wheel is to perform its function. Rust that continues to spread only damages the steel wheel. If not removed rust holes form, compromising the wheel's integrity.
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Things You'll Need
- Wire brush
- Steel wool pad or scrubbing pad
- Rust remover
- Work gloves
- Rags or paper towels
- Primer
- Paint brush
Instructions
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Scrub away the surface rust on the wheel with a wire brush. Hardware stores and home improvement centers sell these brushes.
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2
Put on rubber gloves as a safety precaution before using rust removers. Pour a commercial rust remover onto a scrubbing pad or steel-wool pad. Scrub the rusted areas with the rust remover.
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Leave the rust remover on the wheel for 5 to 15 minutes, or according to the directions on the label. Most rust removers have strong acids like phosphoric acid, hydrochloric acid or oxalic acid as the main ingredient. The acid dissolves away the rust.
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4
Wipe the wheel clean with paper towels or rags.
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Paint on a primer for metals with a paint brush. Let the primer dry completely before using the wheel. Applying primer to the steel wheel prevents rust from continuing to form.
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