Rusty Wheel Arch on '98 W208

[Mr Teddy Bear]

Hi,
Perhaps theirs a knowlegable body shop man here who can offer some
advice.
I was suprised (last June) after purcashing my CLK to spot a couple of small
(approx size of a 5P coin) bubbling paint patches around the lower wheel archs I've tackled this once alreadly using a chemical rust killer treatment &
then a Halfords Touch Up Pack.
However the the RUST IS BACK ARGGGH!
Is this just down to Mercedes paint treatment or is the steel quality a factor as well ?
This time what should I use as a primer Red Lead ? Or can any body suggest
a better alternative ?

Thanks,
Mr Bear.

 

[philharve]

Hi

Your problem is inadequate paint thickness around the wheel arches. Touching up won't work and you need them professionally resprayed if you want to stop the corrosion.

But first the paint has to be removed and the corrosion eliminated using a combination of shot peening and chemical stabilisation. The metal is then sealed and several coats of paint applied, preferably in an oven to bake each layer on. Finally you need colour and shade matching. None of this work is within your average DIYer.

Your best solution is to visit a professional bodyshop. You should also submit a corrosion claim to MB because your problem is very common and MB are aware of it. My own car will visit a bodyshop next month for a 4-wing job. Cost? Around the GBP1000.00 mark. Quality costs.

REGARDS

Phil