Rust issue

Exposition:
I recently bought my 2009 Tacoma with 97k miles. It was owned in Colorado so I knew rust would be apparent, but I want to know if I have anything to worry about. I live in California and the truck will remain here most likely for the rest of it’s life. So given the conditions. Should I worry about this amount of rust?

 

What amount of rust?

Edit: picture uploaded.

 

Personally, I wouldn't worry about that at all. You should see my 2014 - with Ziebart undercoating - after just four winters up here in the salt. Mine looks far worse that yours.

 

I’d be worried. Rust spreads like the plague once it starts

 

The thing is though, is that I live in CA. I understand rust only spreads and what not but living in a state with virtually no rain and never experiences salted roads I’d assume I’m okay, right?

 

That is nothing that can’t be stopped. Most of that appears to be surface rust.

 

Haha you're fine. If you're that worried, clean it up with a wire brush on an angle grinder and properly paint it. That will stop it.

 

That's why I think you'll be ok when some of us - like me - have much more to worry about.

 

The most important words there are "properly painted." Most folks don't have a clue as to how hard that is to do. So for those folks, using any kind of power tool to remove both the rust and some of the paint protecting the surrounding areas will just lead to a bigger disaster. Chemically converting the rust, then painting the area is actually a much simpler and less dangerous method for the type of surface rust the OP has.

Try this stuff:

http://www.loctiteproducts.com/p/s_trmt_extend/overview/Loctite-Extend-Rust-Neutralizer.htm

 

I’ll have my mechanic check it out and see if he knows anyone that can sandblast it and coat it. Thanks guys. Alleviated the stress lol. California people just don’t understand rust since it’s a non issue

 

^ This is what I would do. Get rid of it before it becomes a problem. Should only take a good Saturday afternoon and a six pack of your favorite beverage.

 

Such a controversial topic but what’s the best way to remove rust the most effectively and keep it gone?

 

Do what @EatSleepTacos suggested

 

Remove the rust you can and prime and paint those areas. Use Black Star converter or an Eastwood similar product which will kill any left over rust. The Black Star is super duty marine environment resistant rust converter and does not need to be over coated.

J

 

That doesn't look bad for an 09 at all. I'd address the surface rust as best as I could with the suggestions above and enjoy the truck!

 

Have you ever used the loctite? I have been looking into products to cleanup some surface rust.

 

Yes, I've used it quite a bit and really like it. That's why I recommended it. I have heard that the aerosol version doesn't work as well as the brush on version though.

 

Thanks going to pick some up. Have you used it on your frame, is it thick enough to actual stay there?

 

Yes, I've used it in a number of spots on my frame where the crap Ziebart undercoating failed to adhere and corrosion began. It's reasonably thick and will pretty much stay put. It goes on grey / white and it cures pretty quickly while turning black. I just wait 24 hours or so, then re-paint and re-undercoat the area. I've also used it on steel wheels, various mounting brackets, etc. and am quite happy with the results. Remember though, for best results you need to coat it with a suitable product to keep the area from starting to rust again.

 

I thought Colorado was not considered to be a “rust state” because they don’t use salt on the roads there?