One of the best rust conveter brands - GEMPLER’S Eco-Friendly Rust Converter

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Is rust on your RV getting you down? Don’t let the orange menace win! Use the best rust converter for an RV to restore your ride’s beauty.

Krylon K06904200 Rust Protector Primers, Rust Converting Primer

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Any experienced RVer knows that rust forming on certain parts over time is just a fact of life.

As your RV travels or sits through seasonal changes, the very nature of many metal parts starts to change. And it is this change that brings in the ugly thing we call rust.

In the old days, the only way you could deal with rust was to grind, sand, and scrape it down.

But now, through the miracle of science, you can transform rust into a paintable substance.

Why Use the Best Rust Converter for an RV?

Krylon Rust Converting Primer

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The best rust converter for an RV is an excellent product because it can stop rust on the surface of metals from spreading.

Once you apply the rust converter onto a rusted surface, it triggers a chemical reaction with the rust. Through the bonding process, the rust converter renders the rust inert.

Once the rust becomes inert, that means that it’s stopped in its tracks and can no longer terrorize your RV.

Another great benefit of a rust converter is its ability to double as a metal primer. After the application process, a thin film forms that is impervious to both water and oxygen.

This new sleek surface now allows you to easily paint over the surface area while giving the new paint job a better chance of staying intact even under extreme weather conditions.

Finally, rust converters can help to extend the lifespan of your metal tools, machinery, and other types of equipment. Since it gives rust the stiff-arm, it also enhances the durability of your material and allows them to meet their fullest potential.

The best rust converter also offers users great economic value by preventing additional repurchases.

How to remove rust

Before you begin, the first thing you need to do when painting a rusted metal is to clean off any debris and rust particles.

You also want to make sure you are wearing protective gear such as heavy latex gloves and safety goggles. Some rust converters can contain harmful chemicals that can burn skin.

Next, you want to ensure that you have the smoothest surface possible before you begin the application process.

Depending on how you need to apply our rust converter, you can either spray or brush the chemical onto the rusted metal’s surface.

After you finish this step, leave it to dry. The drying process can vary, but it typically takes up to 24 hours for the surface to completely dry.

You’ll know the chemical transformation was successful if the metal’s surface turns black.

How to paint rusty metal

  • Scrape loose rust from the metal
  • You can also eliminate extra rust by sanding the surface
  • Wipe the surface of your metal to remove all debris
  • Leave it to dry
  • Spray or brush your metal twice with metal-approved paint before leaving it to dry.

Things to Look for in the Best Rust Converter for an RV

When shopping for the best rust converter for an RV, there are a few things to keep in mind.

First, you should understand that even the best rust converter for an RV only works on rusted metal surfaces.

You shouldn’t try to use it for non-rusted surfaces or non-metal surfaces such as brass, silver, copper, or metals without iron.

However, steel and other iron alloys with rusted surfaces are suitable.

Additionally, you want to gauge the level of rusting on your RV accurately. This factor is more critical with some rust converters than others.

Regardless, you want to make sure the degree of rusting is medium to heavy. Keep in mind, if your project has heavy rusting, you will most likely need to sand or grind it smooth. Even the best rust converter for an RV can only do so much.

Application process

Most rust converters come as a relatively thin liquid. A thinner rust converter allows you to apply it with either a spray or brush.

That said, some more expensive brands offer their formulas in an easy-to-apply aerosol which allows for an even coating. Aerosols can also save on waste.

Also, keep in mind that while you can paint on most rust converters, different brands may offer thinner or thicker formulations. The thickness of the rust converter presents distinct advantages and disadvantages.

Thinner rust converters will more likely require more coats of application but would also be much easier to apply. Plus, thinner rust converters also run the risk of dripping if you apply too much.

Thicker rust converters have the opposite effect. They are more difficult to spray from a bottle. Thus they will not work with that application method.

Another benefit of thicker applications is that they require fewer coats. So this is something the best rust converter for an RV will provide.

Drying time

The standard drying time for all rust converters is 24 to 48 hours. However, this can vary from brand to brand depending on what kind of formula they use.

With some formulas, it’s possible to paint over a rust converter after only one or two hours of drying without any adverse effects to either the priming action, rust conversion, or the paint adherence.

This factor, depending on where you live, may be more or less relevant.

For example, an auto garage in New Mexico will most likely not have any issues allowing the rust converter to cure for a day or two.

On the other hand, an RV owner in the Washington state may not have the luxury of waiting that long due to the weather conditions.

Cleanup

The cleanup process will largely depend on the active agent of the rust converter, which means that it can either be a snap or take significantly more effort.

Most rust converters have a phosphoric acid base which contains many other compounds to affect it in different properties.

These rust converters will often be the most difficult to clean up after use.

That said, we should also note that the difficulty of cleaning any rust converter will depend on what you are cleaning it off of as well.

When cleaning a rust converter, make sure you don’t allow the substance to get on your bare hands or clothing. In this instance, the rust converter is likely to stain your clothing forever as well as your hands until they shed off the skin.

However, there are a few rust converter brands that are water-based and allow you to clean them off with soap and water easily.

Flammability and toxicity

Stained skin isn’t the only reason for not coming into direct contact with rust converters.

Since some of the best rust converters contain phosphoric acid, they will burn you if the chemical comes in contact with your skin.

Keep in mind, burns from phosphoric acid aren’t the same as burns from nitric or sulfuric acid, meaning you don’t have to worry about scarring or blisters.

However, direct contact with your skin is still bad news and can cause irritation, discomfort, and even inflammation.

So once again, please make sure you wear a sturdy pair of rubber gloves while handling rust converter.

As for flammability, not all rust converters are equal in this measure. Some have additives that are specifically designed to make them non-flammable. They advertise this benefit by saying that their product has no flashpoint.

On the other hand, aerosol spray rust converters are always flammable due to the compressed nature of the product.

Durability

Ideally, the best rust converter for an RV will continue to treat metal long after its application.

The best brands out there promise that their rust converter will protect your metal against future corrosion and rust without additional treatment.

These products are few and far between, and even they have limitations. However, some rust converters are essentially more durable than others.

Thickness, while not a standard of measurement for a rust converter’s durability, does seem to be a factor when it comes to sustainability.

Most people find that the thicker rust converters last longer. But, thinner formulas can weigh just as heavy once it converts the rust, regardless of the product’s initial thickness.

How We Found the Best Rust Converter for an RV

The process of finding the best rust converter for an RV involved numerous hours of research.

We consulted RV internet forums, videos, and articles to put together a list of the most-recommended rust converters.

After gathering our list, we picked the top choices based on their user review ratings.

Our Picks for the Best Rust Converters for an RV

These are our top choices for the best rust converter for an RV. These rust converters vary in application, container size, drying time, thickness, and formulas.

Some are also water-based, while others are not. However, we once again advise caution when handling even the most environmentally friendly rust converters, as they can still harm bare skin.

Corroseal Water-Based Rust Converter Metal Primer

Corroseal Water-Based Rust Converter Metal Primer, Rust Converter - 1...
  • Paint, prime and convert rust in one step - water based rust converter with latex metal primer
  • Restore metal surfaces, extend life of metal equipment by protecting it from rust and corrosion
  • Non-flammable and non-corrosive, water-based formula cleans up with just soap and water

Corroseal Water-Based Rust Converter Metal Primer has the power to extend the life of your metal equipment by protecting it from corrosion and rust.

Rust is a natural process which takes place when the iron in steel oxidizes and returns to its original state, iron oxide.

Using an innovative chemical conversion process, Corroseal Rust Converter converts your vehicle’s rust (iron oxide) into a stable substance called magnetite.

At the same time, this process also primes the surface with a high-quality latex metal primer, allowing for one step corrosion control.

Plus, its an eco-friendly alternative to sandblasting. Best of all, Corroseal is less time consuming and less expensive. No more rusty dust in the air.

Corroseal is excellent for industrial equipment, as well as household, marine, and automotive needs.

Permatex Rust Treatment

Permatex 81849 Rust Treatment, 10.25 oz. net Aerosol Can
  • Easily applied, just brush or spray it on
  • Destroys rust on all automotive applications
  • Within minutes, rust disappears and a durable black polymer coating develops

Permatex Rust Treatment offers one-step treatment to destroy old rust and prevent new rust.

You can apply it by either brush or spray. Within a few minutes, you’ll replace rust with a durable black polymer coating that you can paint over.

At the same time, the protective primer is specially formulated to work on fiberglass and body filler.

Plus, you can use it when temperatures are between 50 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. And, you can also apply it to surfaces which do not exceed 200 degrees Fahrenheit.

Not to mention, this rust converter works for both automobile and marine applications such as trucks, trailers, RVs, pipes, decks, bulkheads, and more.

Rust Converter ULTRA

FDC Rust Converter Ultra, Highly Effective Professional Grade Rust...
  • CONVERT RUST: Convert rust to an inert coating that seals out moisture to prevent further corrosion
  • SAFE TIME & MONEY: Eliminates the need for sandblasting, grinding or scraping
  • EFFICIENT: 1 Gallon Covers 500 square of smooth, nonporous surface – That‘s an entire Dumpster!

Rust Converter ULTRA takes pre-existing rust and transforms it into an inert coating, which seals out moisture and prevents future corrosion and rust.

Now you don’t have to worry about scrapping, sandblasting, or grinding when it comes to getting rid of rust.

Additionally, this all-in-one primer and surface conditioner makes a dark, protective polymeric barrier that stands up to all weather conditions and makes painting over rust a breeze.

Best of all, it has a non-toxic and fumeless water-based formula and is non-flammable. Also, Rust Converter ULTRA comes ready to use, with no dilution required.

BlackStar Rust Converter

BLACK STAR Rust Converter - Converts Rust on Any Steel Surface – 1...
  • Black Star Rust Converter – No more sanding, blasting, scraping, or etching. Instead, our 21st century technology...
  • Won’t Re-Rust – After converting your rust into a beautiful, black, hard, corrosion-resistant polymer resin that...
  • Unlimited uses – If it rusts, Black Star goes to work! Used everywhere from oil rigs to farm equipment. From fences,...

BlackStar Rust Converter converts rust into a slick, black polymer resin coating that resists hard corrosion and re-rusting.

There’s no sanding, etching, blasting, or scraping required. A gallon of this product can cover approximately 400 to 500 square feet.

It also acts as a paint primer that allows you to re-imagine your rusted material into whatever color you want, or use it as your final coat for a clean sleek-looking finish.

Not to mention, this product is used everywhere from oil rigs on the North Sea to farms in the heartland of America.

Even better, it’s formulated to withstand most extreme weather conditions.

RUST KUTTER Rust Converter

Rust Kutter- Gallon - Stops Rust and Converts Rust Spots to Leave a...
  • Stops costly rust and corrosion
  • Stops costly rust and corrosion
  • Binds itself to the metal and prevents moisture and oxygen from attacking the metal surface

Rust Kutter Rust Converter eliminates costly corrosion and rust by binding itself to the metal then preventing moisture and oxygen from attacking the surface.

Within 24 hours, you’ll have a fully transformed surface that you can re-paint.

Best of all, you can use Rust Kutter to restore things like gardening tools, steel buildings, RVs, hinges, truck beds, locks, and more.

Rust-Oleum Automotive Rust Reformer

Rust-Oleum 248659 Rust Reformer Brush On, 8 oz, Black
  • Use on any rusty, metal surface to Instantly convert rust to a flat black, paintable surface that is protected and...
  • Oil based formula creates a bond with rusted surface that can be easily painted
  • Dries tack free in 15-20 minutes, allow 3 hours before topcoating for oil-based paints and 3 days for lacquers or...

Rust-Oleum Automotive Rust Reformer works to stop rust in its tracks.

The formula bonds with rusty metal turning it into a flat-black, non-rusting surface without sanding. It also prevents future rust and corrosion, while converting the metal into a paintable surface.

Plus, the solution is water soluble, odorless, and safe to apply. And it’s compatible with oil-based, lacquers or aerosol topcoat paints.

Krylon Rust Converting Primer

Krylon K06904200 Rust Protector Primers, Rust Converting Primer
  • This Product Is A Spray Paints
  • Spray Directly Over Rust To Protect Against Further Corrosion
  • Dries In 2-3 Hours

Krylon Rust Converting Primer turns nasty rust into a waterproof, paintable surface in one easy step.

Just spray directly over rust to protect against further corrosion.

You can apply this primer to things like industrial tools, farm equipment, fencing, RVs, and more.

Best of all, it dries to the touch within minutes, not hours, which means no more long waits.

Total Boat Rust Primer Metal Treatment

TotalBoat Rust Primer Converter (QUART) | Metal Treatment Stops Rust...
  • STOP RUST IN ITS TRACKS: TotalBoat Rust Primer is a metal treatment that converts rust into an inert substance, leaving...
  • WIDE RANGE OF USES: Phosphoric acid-based rust converter is ideal for rusted metal on cars, campers, trucks, trailers,...
  • SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE: Restore, Preserve, and Protect metal from further rust and corrosion. Use on rusted or new metal...

Total Boat Rust Primer Metal Treatment allows you to treat rusted, clean, or new stripped metal, even stainless steel.

It also neutralizes rust while converting it into a stable, paintable surface. Plus, it seals out moisture and oxygen to prevent future rust while protecting your new paint job.

Plus, it features a simple application with no mixing or measuring needed. And the water-thin phosphoric acid-based formula is not as harsh as hydrochloric or muriatic acid rust removers.

Not to mention this rust converter works great on boats, boat lifts, trailers, and RVs. Plus, it dries to a clean, black finish within 24 hours with coverage of up to 500 square feet per gallon.

PlastiKote Rust Converter

MRO Chem Black Star Rust Converter - Converts Rust on Any Steel...
  • Black Star Rust Converter – No more sanding, blasting, scraping, or etching. Instead, our 21st century technology...
  • Won’t Re-Rust – After converting your rust into a beautiful, black, hard, corrosion-resistant polymer resin that...
  • Unlimited uses – If it rusts, Black Star goes to work! Used everywhere from oil rigs to farm equipment. From fences,...

PlastiKote Rust Converter organically converts rust into an iron-hard, paintable surface with no bubbling or foaming.

This formula is also non-toxic, non-flammable, and environmentally safe with no hazardous chemicals. On top of that, it won’t cause bleed-through staining of your subsequent topcoat paints.

CRC Rust Converter

CRC (18419-4PK) Rust Converter - 128 oz., (Pack of 4)
  • No more scraping or sandblasting
  • Protects surfaces for years
  • Instantly stops rust

CRC Rust Converter is a unique quick-drying white acrylic vinyl coating that you can apply to any rusted metal surface to stop rust cold.

It converts rust into a sturdy, black primer with one easy step. With this rust converter, you can say goodbye to scraping and sandblasting.

Plus, It has no flashpoint, making it safe to use on trailers, RVs, equipment, pipelines, storage tanks, and much more. And it dries tack free in 1 hour and fully dries in 24 hours.

Converting Rust: Turning Lemons into Lemonade

As you can see, the best rust converter for an RV can come in many different formulas and applications.

Once again, you want to make sure you pick a rust converter that works well with your local weather conditions.

And, of course, always wear the proper safety equipment when handling rust converter.

That said, once you’ve found the perfect rust converter for your RV, you can kiss unsightly rust goodbye.

We hope you’ve found this guide to the best rust converter for an RV helpful in your search.

Please let us know what you think about these picks or share your own recommendations in the comments section below.

Last update on 2023-05-06 at 08:29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API