If you have been a truck driver or owned a truck for a long time now, you already know how much wear and tear the trucks go through every day. Unlike passenger cars, the trucks are used for commercial purposes, and they have to be ridden across different roads through weather conditions of all kinds. Thus, preventing rust on truck frames is not always possible!
It is evident that there are many ways of treating the rusted truck frames; you can do it by scraping it off by hand, using rust polishing products, applying thin paint coatings, etc. But the best way to prevent rust on a truck frame or restore a rusty truck frame is to use a rust converter spray; it not only does the job quickly and efficiently but is also effective and affordable at the same time.
As the metal truck frames are very prone to get rusted in adverse weather conditions, it is safe to use such rust preventative products to keep them safe from getting rusted frequently. Now, the next question that may cross your mind is what is the best rust converter for truck frame on the market?
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Last update on 2025-01-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Well, if you have come to this page, you will definitely get your answers. But before jumping to the list of best rust converters for trucks and truck frame rust treatment products section, let’s learn a bit about what exactly does rust converter do and how does rust converter work on truck frames.
What is Rust Converter, and How Does Rust Converter Work?
Most of you might have the common question- what is a rust converter, and how does it work in treating the rust on the metal frame of the trucks? As common as it may sound, there are certain things that normal people like us do not know about the rusting process and the working process of the rust removers.
Rust in metals is caused by some definitive instances like moisture in the air, being overly exposed to harsh weather conditions, etc. So, what exactly does a rust converter do? The rust converters remove the rust from the metal and prevent it from getting rusted frequently! Let us indulge in the working process of a rust converter.
When the metal surface is exposed to an adverse weather condition that is full of oxygen and water, it undergoes oxidation. When ignored for long, the metal surface becomes crumbled, and rust is formed over it, leading to corrosion.
Now, the next question arises; how does rust converter work on these corroded metal surfaces? The rust converters have a chemical substance that reacts with the rusted portion and then converts it into a black paintable surface.
It also stops further air oxidation into the surface, which prevents further rusting. Nevertheless, it would be best if you kept using the rust removers/convertors frequently to get an effective coating on the metal surface and prevent rusting again. So, now you know how does rust converter work on truck frames!
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What is the Difference Between Rust Remover and Rust Converter?
If you have been following the article properly till now, you might have noticed two words for depicting the same product- rust remover and rust converter! These two might sound similar, but there is a difference between rust remover and rust converter.
As is evident by the name, the rust remover product removes the rusting from the truck frame, but the rust converter spray converts the rust on truck frames to a black paintable surface. Apart from this fundamental difference, there are a few other differences which we shall discuss next. Keep reading…
Cleaning Procedure
The rust removers work on a cleaning process by removing rust from truck frame entirely and making it a new-like surface again. In contrast, when you opt for a rust converter, you can’t just expect the conversion of the rusted layer to a black paintable surface without providing a new-like shine to the metal surface.
Elements Present
The chemical composition of both is different. The best rust converter for truck frame is made with organic polymer and tannic acid that converts reddish iron oxide into ferric tannate, which is bluish-black in color.
On the other hand, the rust removers have oxalic acid and oil-based primer as the main chemical compounds that react with the rust and make it weak, thus helping in its complete removal. Also, the converters come in liquid form, while the removers come in spray form.
Price
One of the primary differences while choosing a rust converter or rust remover is the amount you pay for them. While the former is usually a bit pricey, you can get the remover at quite a minimal rate than the converter.
Time Consumption
Treating and preventing rust on truck frames is a time-consuming process, and when it comes to differentiating between a remover and a convertor, you must know which one takes more time to do so.
While a rust converter may take about 15-20 minutes to ready the surface for painting, a remover can take 1-3 hours for the same. On the contrary, the remover speeds up the cleaning process, which is not the case with the transformer.
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13 Best Rust Converter for Truck Frame on the Market
The following section will help you figure out more about the best rust converter for truck frame on the market right now. It is composed after analyzing the products closely by our experts, and all the specifications have been broken down keeping in mind the “nuances and differences” of each product. Go through the details to find more.
Rust Oleum Rust Reformer Spray
You can call this the best rust converter for truck frame for its absolutely incredible properties. Right from taking care of your truck frame to taking care of your pocket as well, you have the best product for your vehicle just right here!
The Rust Oleum Rust Reformer Spray is made from a specific oil-based formula that creates a bond with the rusted surface of the truck frame and helps in getting it cleared instantly.
You can use it on any type of rusted metal surface and instantly convert it into a flat paintable surface which also helps in preventing further rusting. Its unique formula cleans the rust quickly and effectively, thus making out the best product for easy truck frame rust removal and prevention as well!
Overall, you can get it for your rusted truck frame without having to think twice before buying.
Pros:
- Dries tack-free in 20-40 minutes.
- Very affordable price.
- It comes in 3 pack sizes.
- Any angle spray technology helps in spraying from any side, making the application procedure easier.
- Long-lasting effect with an advanced preventive technology.
Cons:
- Need to wait for 24 hours at least before applying topcoat.
- Does not retain spray condition after long storage of the product.
Corroseal Water-Based Rust Converter
In case if you have been looking for the best ways to fix rust on a truck frame, then considering the use of a rust converter is undoubtedly your top priority to carry out the task.
And if you are looking for some good products for the work, you can trust the Corroseal Water-Based Rust Converter! It has all the qualities that must be present on a rust converter to make a place in the top 13 list.
It is a water-based rust converter with a latex-based metal primer that ensures converting rust into a paintable surface in just one step! It is easy to apply, you just need to brush, spray or roll, and apply at 8-10 mils wet for 200-250 sq ft per gallon coverage and you are done!
It provides extended life for metal surfaces by restoring them and preventing future rusting and corrosions as well. Overall, this is the best rust converter spray that you can find on the market right now for treating your truck’s rusted frame.
Pros:
- Non-corrosive and non-flammable property
- Multiple applications; automotive, industrial, marine, and general household
- It comes in 4 pack sizes
- Water-based formula is easy to clean using just soap and water
Cons:
- A bit expensive as compared to other alternatives
VHT SP229 Rust Convertor
If you are looking for some of the most effective rust converters to prevent rust on truck frames, consider this a feasible option. The VHT SP229 Rust Convertor might not be the most popular one on the list, but it indeed is a better solution to be able to make it to the list of the 13 top rust converters for truck frames.
It has a superiorly made formula that destroys the rust on your truck frame as soon as it comes in contact with it.
Not only that, it gets sprayed on clearly on the surface and leaves it in a black paintable position that prevents further rusting as well. You also get a smooth finishing after settling for the top coating to shine the brightest.
Nonetheless, it is considered the best product for removing rust from truck frame and a lot of other surfaces like metal, fiberglass, body filler, etc. So, do not wait; get it now for your truck frame rust removal!
Pros:
- Destroys rust on contact
- It comes in two pack sizes
- Affordable price range
- Long-lasting abilities
Cons:
- It takes almost 24 hours of dry time to settle for the topcoat
- One pack doesn’t seem enough for multiple usages
POR-15 Rust Preventive Coating
If you are thinking about how to stop rust on truck frame and still not happy with the products mentioned above, go for this one. The POR-15 Rust Preventive Coating has all the properties that not only treat the rust on your truck frame but also prevent it from occurring again.
It is undoubtedly one of the best rust removers available in the market today! With its gold standard in high-performance coatings, it will keep the rust at bay for the most extended period.
The best part? You can even expect a permanent rust prevention solution after applying this coating as it has advanced impenetrable barrier technology that provides protection against salt, chemicals, corrosive contaminants, and other similar substances. The secret to such an offering lies in its curing ability.
Unlike other rust removers, it doesn’t dry through the evaporation process. In fact, it dries faster upon the presence of moisture, and thus once the rust is cured, it forms a permanent indestructible coating that doesn’t allow rusting anymore.
Overall, POR-15 is undoubtedly the best rust preventative coating and high performance rust converter for truck frame that you can get in the market today!
Pros:
- It comes in 4 pack sizes and five different color options
- A permanent solution to rusting
- Easy 3 step application
- Trustable customer service
- Multiple applications; automotive, commercial, industrial, marine, farm, etc.
Cons:
- A bit expensive
Ospho 605 Metal Treatment
The best way to prevent rust on truck frame is by obviously applying a rust converter. But finding the best product for the purpose is also a challenging task for the truck owners as there are ample options available on the market today!
But when you have come to this guide, you do not have to get confused; we have got you covered! The next on the list is the Ospho 605 Metal Treatment product that ensures your truck’s metal frame is free from rusting and also prevents it from coming back frequently.
It is more like a treatment than just adding a layer to the original surface paint, and it treats the metal surface to remove the rusting and adds a preventive layer to it so that further rusting is also prevented.
It is a kind of preparation that eliminates rust and prepares the surface for painting. Thus, this is indeed the best tool for removing rust from frame and making it eligible for painting as well.
Pros:
- It comes in 2 pack sizes
- Removes rust scale, oil, dirt, grease, loose paint, etc.
- No need to remove light rust
- Works well on multiple surfaces
Cons:
- A bit expensive
- It comes in liquid form
MRO Chem Black Star Rust Converter
Are you still wondering how to remove rust from a truck frame? Well, worry no more! The MRO Chem Black Star Rust Converter is your go-to solution for all your rust removal needs for your truck frame.
It has incredible black star rust converter technology that ensures no more blasting, sanding, scraping, or etching on your truck frame. Instead, it transforms the rusty surface into a slick polymer resin coating which works phenomenally to stop more rust formation on the frame.
The best part about this rust remover is that after transforming the surface into a black and hard corrosion-resistant surface, it ensures the moisture is retained, and the rust does not reoxidize. It is not only a paint remover but also works as a paint primer that treats the metal to achieve a vivid and smooth color.
Overall, if you are thinking about what is the most effective rust converter for truck frame, choose this one blindfolded!
Pros:
- Unlimited and multiple surface usage
- Comes in 8 pack sizes
- Easy application procedure
- No stripping, blasting, grinding, or wire wheeling
- It can be used on multiple surfaces like metal roofs, steel sheds, fences, bridges, trucks, trailers, etc.
- Long-lasting effect
Cons:
- Quite expensive in comparison
JENOLITE Rust Converter
No wonder when you are in search of a product to remove the rust of your truck frame, you will look out for the best rust converter in the market. But, do you know what is the best rust converter for truck frame on the market? Well, we have an answer!
The JENOLITE Rust Converter is probably one of the best rust converters available on the market right now! With a simple to use and fast-acting rust converter technique, this surely knows how to keep rust at bay when applied properly to the affected parts of the truck frame.
It converts the rust into a ready-to-paint surface quite easily. You don’t need a primer when applying this rust converter on the rusted surface. It acts within 15 minutes of application and resists water vapor, oxygen, carbon dioxide, bacterial growth, and other similar contaminants from harming the surface again.
Overall if you were curious to find out what is the best product to stop rust on your truck frame, this one must definitely top your list!
Pros:
- Offers great value as it covers 6-8 square meters per liter
- The surface can be repainted with water-based or oil-based paint
- Comes in 2 size options
- Long-lasting effect
Cons:
- A bit expensive in comparison
Rust Kutter – Rust Converter
This product can also be named the best rust converter for truck frame for its effective properties to treat rust. It does not only help in removing the rust from the metal surface but also ensures proper prevention of rust and corrosion in the near future.
It is made with such compounds that bind to the metal surface and prevent moisture and oxygen from harming the metal surface.
It provides long-term prevention from corroding metal surfaces and is thus, considered the best product to carry out the job effectively. It is easy to apply; you can scrape the rust with a wire brush, then spray the rust converter undercoating product onto the affected portion.
After that allow it to dry for an optimal period (24 hours is suggested), rinse, and again allow to dry before you apply paint to it and you are done!
Pros:
- Available in both quarts and gallons
- Comes in 2 pack sizes
- Professional rust repair and prevention
- Long-lasting formula
- It can be applied to multiple surfaces like garden tools, farm equipment, trailers, etc.
Cons:
- A bit costly in comparison
KBS Rust Converter
Most truck owners wonder how to fix rust on a truck frame as there are not many ways to attain the same. There are limited rust removal processes available for truck frames, out of which the application of rust converters is mentioned in this article. The rust converters help in removing the rust from the truck frames easily and conveniently.
The KBS rust converter is no less than a professional rust converter that doesn’t only remove rust but prevents further rusting of the metal surface very conveniently. It features an easy aerosol application that instantly transforms rust into a black paintable surface.
Thus, it creates a surface that is ideal for topcoats within just a few minutes of its application. With an easy application process and an affordable price rate, KBS coatings is indeed a good rust neutralizer for trucks available in the market.
Pros:
- Fast drying
- Create a surface as good as a primed surface
- Affordable price range
- Long-lasting rust prevention
- Easy application procedure
- No need to sandblast, scrape or grind
Cons:
- Not good for other surfaces apart from the truck metal frames
XIONLAB 2 in 1 Rust Converter and Metal Primer
You must know that preventing rust on truck frame is easier when you choose the XIONLAB 2 in 1 Rust Converter and Metal Primer for your truck frame. As the name suggests, this product works wonderfully for both conversion of the rusted metal surface and acts as a metal primer as well.
One of the amazing qualities of this rust converter is that it is most probably the only product that can also be applied on damp surfaces. It means you can easily convert the rusted surface into phosphate without having to sandblast it or heavy scraping it.
This product has a water-based formula with an additional UV and hydrogen sulfide resistant property that can seldom be found on other such products.
This professional grade corrosion converter makes the rust removing process a breeze and ensures a long-lasting effect on the surface. Therefore, using it is undoubtedly the best way to remove rust from the truck frame instantly.
Pros:
- Can accept all top coatings and not just only the oil-based ones
- Environment-friendly, non-flammable, no lead, VOCs less than 1%, and no oily solvents
- Full money-back guarantee if not satisfied
- Covers 2.5x more area than normal
- Do not require a topcoat
Cons:
- Very expensive price range
Star brite Rust Eater and Converter
If you are still reading this, then it is sure you are thinking about how to stop rust on truck frame and want to know more about the other products available in the market. Do not worry; we will continue with some more products to make your choice effortless. So, the Star brite Rust Eater and Converter is another product that needs special mention in this list of best rust converters.
As much as the name suggests, it evidently eats the rust on the metal surface and heals it back to its original form quite effectively. Nonetheless, this rust converter removes the rust and controls further metal oxidation without harming its original form. In short, it converts rusted steel to stable and solid form steel easily!
Not only that, this superficial product makes an excellent base coat for painting the metal surface after the application of the spray within a very short time span. Therefore, it provides longevity in rust prevention and can be considered one of the best products for removing rust between frame rails. You can buy it, no doubt!
Pros:
- Biodegradable and environmentally friendly property
- Safe-to-use product with special buffering process
- Affordable price range
Cons:
- Not good for multiple applications
CRC Rust Converter
By now, you already know what is the best way to prevent rust on truck frame; it is by using a rust converter spray! But you might still be searching for some reliable products to carry out the work easily.
And after going through all amazing products explained above, if you are still not satisfied, here is the 12th one on the list that might meet your needs. The CRC Rust Converter is your go-to product to treat the rust on your truck’s metal frame and prevent it from coming back again.
This product instantly stops rust on the surface and easily converts it into a tough black primer surface. It has a rust prevention method that ensures your metal surface is protected from rusting for many years.
It has a unique fast-drying formula that produces milky white vinyl/acrylic coating on the surface that stops rusting for a longer period. Overall, this is the best truck frame rust treatment you can get for your truck.
Pros:
- No need for scraping or sandblasting
- Dries tack-free in one hour
- Non-flammable
- Multiple surface application
- No flashpoint
- 1-quart bottle size available
Cons:
- A bit expensive
TotalBoat Rust Primer Converter
Are you still in two minds about what is the best rust converter for truck frame on the market? Then consider this last one to be your final solution. The TotalBoat Rust Primer Converter is another best product available in the market today.
It converts the rust on the metal surface into an inert surface, making it ready for primer or paints within a very short time frame.
What makes it a good product is that it has a wide range of uses and can be applied across various surfaces like trailers, steel doors, metal railings, rebar, etc. It provides superior performance by restoring, preserving, and protecting the metal surface from further rusting and corrosion.
You can also use it on new metal surfaces apart from rusted metal surfaces to seal air and moisture for future prevention from rusting and corrosion. So, overall, in the list of 13 best rust converter for truck frame on the market right now, this one surely has all the potential to beat the others in the list by a greater extent.
Pros:
- Superior performance with an easy application procedure
- Unmatched coverage with water-thin formula
- Improves finish durability
- Available in both quart and gallon sizes
- Good for DIY and professional repairs
- Affordable price
- Comes in 2 pack sizes
Cons:
- Sandblasting required for better performance.
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How Much Does It Cost to Repair a Rusted Truck Frame?
After you have gone through the products list, a certain thought might have occupied your mind as to how much does it cost to fix a rusted frame on a truck, isn’t it? Though the price of the products is known to you, there are still some more expenses that you need to do to repair a rusted truck frame.
The actual cost of the repair procedure cannot be guessed appropriately as there are certain things that may change the cost gradually. But if you want to get a general idea about the cost to remove rust from truck frame and repair it, then the approximate values can be anything between $100 to $5000 depending upon the damage and repairs!
If you need repairing small spots on the frame, then it can cost you a minimal amount of around $100, but when you need to repair the entire truck frame, it can cost you $1500 approximately.
The truck frame rust repair cost goes up and down depending on the extent of the damage and the repair needed for the same. If you want extensive rust removal and repair of several parts, it can cost you around $5000 or more, and replacing the entire frame can cost you anything between $8000 and $15000 approximately.
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How Long Does It Take for a Rust Converter to Work?
As mentioned previously in the article, a rust converter takes less time to dry as compared to a rust remover. However, you might still have the question- how long does rust converter take to work? Well, usually, a rust converter dries faster, and you can get a ‘ready to use’ surface within just 15-20 minutes.
But it is advised that you do not jump to painting or working upon the metal surface soon after it gets dried as it may not reveal the best result or outcome. So, even though you use the best rust converter for a truck frame, you must wait for at least 24 hours before starting to work on the paint again!
If needed, you can also apply another oil-based top coating, and you shall then wait for another 48 hours before the surface is ready to use.
As soon as it gets dried within 15 to 20 minutes, it may look ready for painting, but the metal surface reveals the best result only when it sits for a longer period.
Sometimes preventing rust on truck frames becomes more mandatory than treating it once because you may not always afford frequent comebacks of the rusting. So, allowing ample time to dry and then applying the paint coating will only enhance the shelf life of the rust converter on the metal surface.
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Can You Leave Rust Converter Unpainted?
After applying the rust converters, this is another important question that people have in their minds- is it necessary to paint over rust converter? Well, to cut it short, it might not be a necessary thing to do after you have applied a coating of the rust converter, but if you want long-lasting prevention from rusting, then it is advised you paint the surface for an effective outcome.
And if you intend to paint the surface, do it soon after the rust converter gets dried as it may take only 15-20 minutes to get dried; painting it soon after may not bring out desired results as mentioned in the above section.
Therefore, the best rust treatment for truck frame is to apply a rust converter (two coats if needed), let it dry for a good 24 hours, use epoxy or oil-based paints to paint the metal surface, let it dry for another 48 hours, and you are done!
So, when you think – do you have to paint over a rust converter, consider the answer to be a yes always!
What is the Best Rust Converter for Truck Frame?
Now that you have reached this portion of the article, you have gained optimum knowledge on how to remove rust from a truck frame and restore its original shine easily and affordably. You have also become familiar with the best rust remover products on the market to serve the purpose and other relevant details about the same.
But now, you might be a little confused when it comes to choosing the best rust converter for truck frame as you have got ample options in the list given above. It is normal to get confused as all of them have certain qualities that make them qualify on the top 13 list.
So, to help you out, based upon my understanding, I have shortlisted a few products out of the list that I would have picked for my truck. These are…
- Rust Oleum Rust Reformer Spray
- MRO Chem Black Star Rust Converter
- XIONLAB 2 in 1 Rust Converter and Metal Primer
However, these are the products that I chose based on my needs and requirements. Nonetheless, all the products mentioned in the list count for the best rust converter for truck frame on the market right now, and you must choose one according to your needs after thoroughly going through the details of the products!
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