Help Keeping Rust off Rotor Hub

[Matt Majeika]

I recently (one month ago) changed all 4 rotors on my vehcle because they were rusting and flaking apart (not very safe). Within a few days, there was already rust on the exposed metal (not the braking surface, but the hub and the rotor edge itself).

I realize that this is merely a cosmetic issue and does nto affect my braking perofrmance in any way. I'd like to clean them thoroughly (which is fairly easy with a rust remover and wire brush). I'd also like to protect the rotors from growing rust in the future. Any suggestions?

On many cars, this is a non-isue due to the style of the rims - but mine are very open (see below) and show a bright orange rotor hub. I'd greatly appreciate some input on this.

Matt

[BlackScreaminMachine]

Re: Help Keeping Rust off Rotor Hub

I had the same issue with my Trans Am. Stock wheels show a lot, my Convo's don't.

Basically many people do this when first installing rotors, this works especially well for ones that have holes drilled, slots, or dimples too. Basically getting a HIGH temp paint, like grill paint or caliper paint.

Prepping the rotor as best you can, Spray down the entire rotor, even the brake pade surface. Let dry, take to a machine shop to clean up that pad surface (basically to remove the paint.

Then your left with all holes or crevaces that are painted, even the hub, and outside edge of the rotor.

Also some just tape the brake pad surface and remove after spraying.

http://www.ls1tech.com/forums/appear...-painting.html see post #10 and #17

In the end the best method is Powder Coating and this guy is the man!

http://www.thepowderpro.com/ check out his gallary section, does a lot of biz through LS1tech.com

[Matt Majeika]

Re: Help Keeping Rust off Rotor Hub

Thanks. So it seems the most reasonable option here is just to paint them.

[rst08tierney]

Re: Help Keeping Rust off Rotor Hub

Make sure to buy some HIGH HEAT paint as stated above. VERY important

[rcktpwrd]

Re: Help Keeping Rust off Rotor Hub

Like posted above be sure to get high heat paint. Most auto parts stores carry paint for headers that should work well on the rotors.

[CHzo6]

Re: Help Keeping Rust off Rotor Hub

A lot of aftermarket makers have switched to cheaper, chinese recycled steel and other metals in their rotors and other parts, which leads to the rusting issue. NAPA, along with other makers, sell rotors with a coating on the rusting area so that it does not rust.
I've fixed this myself on several cars by using high temp engine enamel in a spray can, holds up very well.

[tapp1]

Re: Help Keeping Rust off Rotor Hub

Wont brake cleaner or laquer thinner just take the paint of the braking surface?

I would try this before bringing the rotor to a machine shop. I would think the paint would wear off anyways.

I had the same issue with my Trans Am. Stock wheels show a lot, my Convo's don't.

Basically many people do this when first installing rotors, this works especially well for ones that have holes drilled, slots, or dimples too. Basically getting a HIGH temp paint, like grill paint or caliper paint.

Prepping the rotor as best you can, Spray down the entire rotor, even the brake pade surface. Let dry, take to a machine shop to clean up that pad surface (basically to remove the paint.

Then your left with all holes or crevaces that are painted, even the hub, and outside edge of the rotor.

Also some just tape the brake pad surface and remove after spraying.

http://www.ls1tech.com/forums/appear...-painting.html see post #10 and #17

In the end the best method is Powder Coating and this guy is the man!

http://www.thepowderpro.com/ check out his gallary section, does a lot of biz through LS1tech.com

[BillyJack]

Re: Help Keeping Rust off Rotor Hub

I've been very happy with POR-15 heat-resistant products in this application. Available in grey, silver or black, it can be brushed on, which saves all the masking, but it flows extremely well and looks like it's been sprayed. Designed primarily for exhaust manifolds, it cures fully with heat, so it's ideal for brake rotors. As always, the level of prep determines the quality and durability of the final finish.

Bill