Rust Spot Help
- Thread starter 98Tj_Anthony
- Start date
Not sure id want to do that. I'd need paint for after I weld it and I don't know where I'd get that.
WDE
TJ Enthusiast
...before it gets bad??
Multiple rust layers flaking off is bad, that's not surface rust. You will need paint either way if you're wanting to fix it correctly. If you're just wanting to stop the rot, you will need to remove the existing rust (including under the bubbled paint) by sanding, wire brush etc until you get to clean metal. Then you will need to prep, prime, and paint (matching or not).
That is a common spot for rust and I can guarantee that thousands of owners have tried the clean, patch and paint method only to have it show up again in a matter of a few months.
Been there done that. If it is that bad on top it is worse underneath. Fender replacement is very close most likely…
That fender is trash imho but I am a spoiled West coast rust snob...even if you cut it out you won't get all of it look at how that area of the fender is designed
You can purchase a whole new fender pre-painted here:
https://paintedautobodyparts.com/je...find=2004-jeep-wrangler-97-06-fenders-1086360
https://paintedautobodyparts.com/je...find=2004-jeep-wrangler-97-06-fenders-1086360
IMO, that rust is worse under the fender than on top. I’d check Dead Jeep, or our very own @Goreshnik for another fender. You might even find one in your color at a savings over new.
I did exactly that on mine last year. Previous owner covered it up with Bondo but that just delayed what I found. It won’t hold it off forever… but long enough before I just order new fenders.
Nice job. I found one dime sized spot on my fender. I'm going this route if/when it gets worse. I treated it with some Eastwood encapsulator to see if it actually works.
UKTJ
TJ Addict
Paramount brand. Mine too. I usually don't like the contours of most flat fenders.
https://paramount-automotive.com/i-...ler-tj-edge-front-fender-with-led-lights.html
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I had those same spots on both fenders, I ground it out with a dremel pretty deep, used Eastwood rust encapsulator, bondo then a little paint. Good enough for now. Since my jeep stays in the garage in any rain or snow I should get several years out of it. when it comes back I will likely replace them.
Given your location, if, and only if, it's fixable, cutting out the old rust will be easier than removing and replacing the fender. My guess is you're going to break several bolts, leading to more work!
FWIW, paint can be found here:
https://www.automotivetouchup.com/touch-up-paint/
I fixed mine a few months ago, it did not come out as good as I hoped I think because I used too much bondo. At least there’s not visible rust, but the repair line is clearly visible. Eventually I’ll replace the fender or maybe get flat fenders (although I prefer the stock style)
