hi

I've got some rust on a few of my wheel arches (3/4)

What is the best way to tackle this?

It's a 2009 1.6 Perol Focus

Thanks 

If the rust has started at the sharp edge of the panel and has spread under the paint you can sand it back to clean metal, treat it with a proprietary rust killer then apply primer, undercoat, topcoat & lacquer. If you can get at the inside edge of the panel treat it with something like Waxoyl. If you prime and undercoat well that should hold it at bay for a year or two.

If it's bubbling up away from the edge it's more than likely perforated. In that case you're on a hiding to nothing. Since, in your other post, you've said the car's coming due for a cambelt you might want to consider getting rid if funds will allow rather than throwing good money after bad.

Thanks for the advice mate.

It's 2009 so its knocking on a bit.  It's only used by the Mrs now who has done 6k miles in 2 years.

Had MOT today and threw through with no minors.
I noticed a bit of rust on the arches so I can try your suggestions above.

The mechanic recommended changing the timing belt shortly as it is approaching 10 years old. But I've had it 6 years and I've got full service history and I've had it serviced every year.

I have a 2009 panther black one, I bought the proper touch up kit, undercoat, colour and lacquer. There is a small wire brush in the kit, I just rubbed off the rust and applied the under coat, next day colour then lacquer.

Three days later I smoothed with the felt pad that also comes with the kit, then polished, then waxed.

Still looks fine after two years (as long as its surface rust.

Change you cambelt. Ford say 8 years or 100k whichever comes first. I did mine three years ago! 

Thanks stratoc you got  a link to the kit your purchased?

*edit* mines panther black too

https://www.halfords.com/motoring/paints-body-repair/scratch-repair-paint-restorers/halfords-ford-panther-black-scratch-chip-repair-kit

 

Ignore the review from the guy who bought it to paint over paint stripper that was poured over his car! 

13 hours ago, stratoc said:

https://www.halfords.com/motoring/paints-body-repair/scratch-repair-paint-restorers/halfords-ford-panther-black-scratch-chip-repair-kit

 

Ignore the review from the guy who bought it to paint over paint stripper that was poured over his car! 

Thanks pal. I've ordered one - will pick it up and try it today!