Project in bare steel: Surface rust prevention

I have a custom project that I have been working on for about two years now, and it has been in bare steel for most of it. I am wondering if there are any tricks to keep the surface rust at bay. I have heard a few rumors about using CLR or some other neutralizing product, but I would prefer to hear from those with experience. In the various stages of mockup and assembly there are areas that are hard to reach with the sanding method.
Little help? Thanks in advance
peace.

 

Gibbs Oil is an option that you will hear from a bunch of people.

 

Look for a product called Picklex. It works good to remove light rust and leaves a coating to help prevent it. A dehumidifier in the shop also helps.

J.

 

2nd on the dehumidifier, a little thing, but it helps alot.

 

Another vote for Gibbs. The chassis has been in bare metal for over 2 years, most of the sheetmetal has been bare for over a year. Rusty fingerprints clean off easily with a little more Gibbs and scotchbrite.

I also had the engine sprayed with Gibbs before I painted it. I sprayed it down with brake cleaner to get the Gibbs out of the nooks and crannies...then wiped it down with pre-cleaner...primed and painted with no problems. I will do the same when it comes time to paint the rest.



Neal

 

Where can one buy this Gibbs you speak of?

 

http://www.roadsters.com/gibbs/#prices

http://getgibbs.com/

 

Thanks mucho for the info! I knew you guys would have the knowledge. I will get some today!
Any issues welding with oil getting between panels?

 

When you get to the Gibbs site and look at the price don't be alarmed. though a little on the high side it's worth at least twice what the price is. You just can't put a price when it comes to keeping rust from your pride and joy. I bought a case of the stuff and when I'm down to a couple of cans I'll order a case again. It's that good.

Frank

 

Thanks fab32. I wasn't sure how much I needed. I'll go for a case because I also have prized sheets that will eventually become parts/panels and those are rusting as well. That's why I was wondering about people's experience welding after using it. There are crevices and overlaps that would be hard to clean the stuff out of and I like CLEAN metal prior to welding.
Thanks for all your help.
peace.

 

I use Gibbs on a lot of stuff and it works amazing... get some!