Hey guys. Just picked up an EM1 and it looks like the previous owner had a cheap bodykit on there at some point. There are three screw holes in each rocker panel and they're starting to corrode a little. I'm wondering what some of you pros would recommend: simply covering them with POR15 (I've used it in the past with good results) or sanding, filling and re-spraying (also no problem, just more of a PITA )?

Here's a pic of what I'm talking about:



Your input is much appreciated

 

por15 is nasty. i would use 4-500 grit and just hand sand it down pretty far, make sure you get all of the yellow oxidation. then use a zinc primer and you should be set for life unless you live on salt flats or something.

 

why is por-15 nasty?

 

Yeah, I was just about to buy some to prevent rust on my EG. What do you mean its nasty?

 

I would grind it out just a little w/ a bur bit or dremel so you get the surface rust on the inside of the metal panel and so you can get at the inside when you touch it up. Touch it up with 2K / 2 part epoxy or metal primer really good, liberally on the inside, let it flash/ begin to cure. T/U with a little paint then stick a little plug in there when its dry or urethane adhesive w/ the head of a plug to cover it up. Don't use anything too tight that wrecks the T/U paint. Etch primer or acid primer only will not stand up to the elements over time.