Why use CLR on weathered trucks?

[doubleb's69]

I have seen more than one person say to use CLR on the truck they are messing with. My question is, does this clean up the surface rust? Do you just wipe it on with a rag and let it air dry? Please post some befor and after pics so I can see the results.

[LockDoc]

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You will see some good threads on the subject if you type "CLR" into the Google search box at the top of the page, click on the circle in front of "67-72chevytrucks.com and click on the "Google" button. I think one of them says something about CLR & Scotchbright. It's amazing how well it cleans up rusty sheet metal.

Here is a site with some pictures:

http://lowbus.com/BB/index.php?topic=335.90

Scroll down to the '59 El Camino when you get there...

LockDoc

[jocko]

I look at it as a pseudo-POR 15 for paint. Turns the surface rust a sweet patina black and kinda sorta maintains it that way. It's just a means of maintaining "what you have" but coloring it sort of black. Here's a pic of one that looks like it's been CLR'ed, and then clear coated (not sure that's a good idea, but whatever...)

EDIT - WOW, Lockdoc - cool post, just read your link. Here's a pic from it that really shows the difference it can make (El Camino fender). It's not a "paint prep", but if it produces the patina look you're loolking for, it's pretty dang cool...

[YBNORML]

I never really paid attention to the CLR posts. Now that I have seen those pics of the elky I am interested. Makes an incredible difference.

[doubleb's69]

Thanks for all of the info guys.

[dukcaln]

nice...never knew

[mblackburnjr]

Just be sure to read and follow all safety precautions! At work we used to use an industrial CLR that would eat your fingernails if you didnt use gloves. Pretty harsh stuff.

[MattPSU]

Last weekend I used CLR with a Scotch Brite pad and sand paper (800 or 1000 grit) to clean up my hood, cowl, fenders. It worked great to remove some of the rust stain and bring back some of the color. I used a 50/50 mix with water in a spray bottle - let it sit for 5-10 minutes, then scrubbed/sanded the rough spots. Hosed it off when I was done and afterwords I just used some polish to give it a little shine. Below are some before and after pictures.

[VA72C10]

I have been told that the spray lime away works just as good. I'm almost convinced it's more the scotch brite pad with some liquid doing 80-90% of the work. I've tried it without a scotch brite and not much change once it dries. Also, I try dilluted first, but in extreme cases I use it full strength. What you get off the shelf isn't as strong as the industrial stuff. Gloves are still a good idea although I didn't use them when I did mine...