Rust in Convertible Bay Area

So i was checking out some squeaking noises on my 01 330 cic and stopped the top halfway before i dropped it. I looked into the convertible top storage area and saw a bit of rust forming on area between the black plastic trim and the painted metal surface. I went to Reibes and got some rust removing gel that says its paint safe if wiped off in 5 minutes after using. Has anyone experienced rusting before, and if so how did u get rid of it? I assume this is caused by dropping the top without fully letting it dry? Thnx for any help.

Anyone that lives in the snow belt will tell you that's just a fact of life, cars rust. There is no 100% method to remove rust, especially on an edge unless you cut it out and weld in new metal. You'll get the rust you see, yet will probably miss the rust that crept around the edge - and thus it will be back.

Scared ya yet? Its not as bad as I'm making it out to be. Sand it down, spray it with some rust paint, then paint over to match the car if you care that the paint matches. If done right it might not return for years, if ever.

I doubt storing the top while wet caused it. The storage compartment has drain holes for a reason, its not 100% water tight.

Im not too scared since its inside the storage area and most people would never get a chance to look in there. The rust seems to have built up on the surface of the paint and is coming off with my fingernail, leaving the pain intact. I am a bit scared to use the rust removing gel tho. If i try it and it works i will post up before and after pics.

I have the same thing going on. I'm not to worried about it. just sand it down and hit it with paint. Did you try the gel? I'm kinda curious how it works.

Originally Posted by kungfubrewer

Im not too scared since its inside the storage area and most people would never get a chance to look in there. The rust seems to have built up on the surface of the paint and is coming off with my fingernail, leaving the pain intact. I am a bit scared to use the rust removing gel tho. If i try it and it works i will post up before and after pics.

If the paint is intact, it is not rust of the underlying metal. It could be rust deposited as something flowed, or it could maybe be what I have on the passenger side/motor "pocket" : rust-looking stains which are, I believe the result of some lubrication substance flowing over time. Just wipe it off and wax the area.