16 Best Rust Converters To Fix Rust Quickly (Reviews & Buying Guides)
When you’ve finished cleaning your car and protecting its coat of paint from scratches and dullness, another step to do in proper auto maintenance is applying a rust converter.
Yes, that’s right! You also need to add another layer of protection from an unshakable enemy – rust! And that usually starts forming on the car undercarriage or over chipped paint.
Rust converters provide a protective coating to your auto paints and other parts of your car. It’s a good rust remedy and is part of an automotive service called rustproofing. This service comes hand in hand with undercoating.
Both services defend your car from damages caused corrosion and salt on the road during winter time.
Although there is no permanent rust cure out there since rust just forms too easily, performing rustproofing and undercoating regularly can help make your ride perform better for longer.
Read on to Discover the Best Rust Converter
When it comes to metal, corrosion is almost inevitable. That makes rust removal all the more important. You’ll need the help of an excellent rust killer product to succeed.
There are many forms of such products, like rust inhibitors for you to apply it manually or leave it to the pros like Rust Check. But before reading on to the product reviews, what is a rust converter?
So, in the article, we’ll explore:
- Top 10 Best Rust Converter
- What is a Rust Converter?
- The Best Rust Converter Spray
- Rust Remover Gel
- Rust Remover vs. Rust Converter
- Rust Encapsulator vs. Rust Converter
- How to Use Rust Converter?
- Rust Converter FAQ
Top 10 Best Rust Converter Reviews
To get you started on your rust converting journey, here are some of the best rust converter that you can easily buy from Amazon:
1. Corroseal Rust Converter (82331 Water Based)
[amazon box=”B001CRETZW” star_rating_link=”none”]If you need a rust converter for your business or you just really prefer a heavy-duty performance, the industrial strength of this Corroseal product is what you need to try! You can use it for your household appliances, for your cars, and even for businesses like fleet and machinery.
By using the Corroseal converter, you can extend the life of your equipment since you’re giving them maximum protection against rust and corrosion. With this converter, iron oxide is transformed in magnetite.
You also don’t need to do any sandblasting so your conversion costs will be less expensive and will require less time too. Plus, Corroseal is also effective for marine vehicles.
2. Rust-Oleum Rust Reformer for Automotive
[amazon box=”B003BHYY3S” star_rating_link=”none”]Don’t let the name deter you as this product is absolutely excellent! The Rustoleum rust converter can instantly transform rusty surfaces by converting the rust into a paintable, protective barrier.
With this product, you don’t need to do any sanding down and you wouldn’t need to see the bare metal.
All you need to do is apply it directly to the rust, and you’re good to go. It also prevents future rust formation because the chemical solution bonds with the surface to give it added protection.
3. Black Star Rust Converter
[amazon box=”B01283DMGA” star_rating_link=”none”]A product that works exceptionally well is this one from Black Star. If you want a rust converter that will give you only the best performing power, this is the product you need to try!
It can instantly turn rust into a hard polymer resin coating that is super smooth and corrosion resistant. So you could say goodbye to rust for a really long time (if not permanently!).
What’s more amazing is that you can apply this to your equipment even during harsh weather and it will still do magnificently well!
And you can put it on anything you could think of, not just cars. Farmers can use it on sheds and bins and even oil companies can use it on their oil rigs in the sea.
So make sure to protect all your metal that’s exposed to the elements because this product will definitely guard it good!
4. Rust Converter ULTRA
[amazon box=”B014LR5PA2″ star_rating_link=”none”]Another excellent rust proofing product you need to try is this converter from FDC. It doubles as a surface conditioner and primer that transforms rust to a protective coating made out of polymer.
For this product work, it needs rust, thus the name rust converter. By converting iron oxide into a polymeric barrier, this product helps eliminate existing rust, prevent further rust formation, and keeps your car very well protected.
Not only that but it seals out moisture and is an excellent primer for oil-based paints. Plus, you don’t need to do any surface preparation.
This product is also fast drying; 20 minutes is all it needs. But if you want the best results, remember to add another coat on top of it. Let it cure for about 48 hours and seal it with a high-quality oil-based paint.
This product is ready to use. No need for thinning, just shake or stir. You can even apply it with either a brush, a roll, or a spray.
5. Evapo-Rust Rust Remover
[amazon box=”B00M0TLQ66″ star_rating_link=”none”]The Evapo-Rust Rust Remover is very safe to use. It contained no acids and still safe on skin. Also, this rust converter is biodegradable and non-toxic. This means that it will not harm the environment and you do not need special gloves to handle it too.
Come in a 1-gallon packaging, it’s estimated that it can de-rusts up to 300 lbs. of steel. Also, this rust remover is excellent at removing rust in minutes, without scrubbing or sanding.
The low product price is also another plus point. You can try this rust remover without much risk. However, do not get mistaken that the quality is sub-par due to the pricing, though.
The Evapo-Rust Rust Remover will perform like the other famous known rust killer brand but at a cheaper price.
Overall, the Evapo-Rust Remover is safe for use and is a good quality rust converter. Also, it’s safe to use on cast iron cookware, grill grates, antiques, tools, auto parts, clocks, sewing machines, toys and more.
6. Krud Kutter RX01 Rust Converter
[amazon box=”B004Y6T79Q” star_rating_link=”none”]The Krud Kutter 1 gallon Rustex is rust inhibiting coating which converts rusted metal into rust retarding, paintable surface.
The rust is chemically changed to iron phosphate, that turns the metal black. These changes increase the paint adhesion and durability of the coating
A gallon of the Rustex can cover approximately 300 sq. ft. depending on how thick you’re applying the chemical. Also, it’s recommended to remove loose paint and heavy rust on the metal surface with a wire brush for a more effective result.
However, if you choose to apply the Rustex without removing the thick rust on the surface, then you might need to apply two coat of the rust converter.
Krud Kutter Rustex is manufactured in the USA. Besides using on rusted metal, it can be used to etch new galvanized metal as well.
7. Skyco Ospho Surface Prep
[amazon box=”B000C02B3W” star_rating_link=”none”]Skyco Ospho is another excellent rust remedy that should not go unnoticed. When applied to rusted surfaces, it resists/retards rust in chemical change on drying to a tough, hard surface ready for priming.
The Skyco Ospho will make a paint job last longer after an application because it prevents moisture and oxygen from corroding the metal any further. Any paint job will securely attach itself to the metal after the application.
You do not need a lot Skyco Ospho rust converter to remove rust. This product is s water-thin, can cover a larger area than paint, and is easy to apply.
The folks at painting industry love the Skyco Ospho a lot and rave about it all the time. Also, this product received a high rating from Amazon and has many satisfied customers.
8. AdCoat Rust Converter and Primer
[amazon box=”B00GUPGAJE” star_rating_link=”none”]AdCoat prides itself as being one of the best brands on the market when it comes to rust remedy solution. This rust converter is effective and can help to eliminate costly sandblasting that people usually use to remove rust.
Since it is waterbased, it’s eco-friendly to the environment and very safe to use. When applied the chemical will react with and converts rust and prime the surface and ready for painting.
When the chemical is dried, the metal surface will turn black and flat. Once the compound is cured, there will be no further corrosion will happen the metal anymore.
Also, the Adcoat rust converter and primer topcoat are suitable with most paint. So, you can save yourself from a headache in choosing paints that are suitable to use with this rust converter.
9. TotalBoat Rust Primer
[amazon box=”B013F9SM3Y” star_rating_link=”none”]From the 100+ of positive reviews, the TotalBoat Rust Primer is another best rust converter brand to pick.
Same like other products here, the TotalBoat Rust Primer converts existing rust into an inert substance and stop further corrosion. Once the chemical cured, the surface is ready for painting.
Also, the phosphoric acid-based contained in the solution is ideal for treating rusted surface on cars, bikes, boat trailers, and any metal surfaces.
TotalBoat Rust Primer also use a water-thin formula where it enables you to cover 500sq feet of the metal surface with just one gallon.
This rust remover and converter are suitable to use on both rusted and new metal. Using it on non-rusted metal ensures superior paint adhesion.
10. PlastiKote 624 Rust Converter
[amazon box=”B000CPI0R8″ star_rating_link=”none”]Another rust converter that works exceptionally well is this one from PlastiKote. Once applied, it will organically turn rust into a hard polymer resin coating that is super smooth and corrosion resistant.
Also, this product will not cause bubbling or foaming when applying to the metal surface. It will also not cause bleed-through staining of subsequent topcoat paints as well.
The PlastiKote 624 rust converter is made of non-toxic and nonflammable ingredient so it’s very safe to use. Additionally, its formula is also environmentally safe and contains no hazardous chemicals.
Best Rust Converter Spray
Since car maintenance is a lengthy task that requires a lot of effort, finding a product that can make your life a little easier is such a blessing! A converter spray does the same functions that a regular converter can do.
The only significant difference they have is that a converter spray comes in an aerosol can. This makes the application easier and faster which is more convenient for you and you can bring it around.
There are tons of good rust proofing brands out there that have rust converter sprays. Some of the products you should check it out include:
- Permatex 81849 Rust Treatment
- Rustoleum 215215 Rust Reformer
- Gempler’s Fast Rust Converter
All these products can be easily bought from Amazon and Autozone or store like Lowes and Home Depot.
Rust Remover Gel
Another innovative rustproofing product comes in gel form. It has many added application benefits that will make you want to buy it to try out.
Remover gels are great for hard to reach areas and require less effort if you want a more controlled application.
It is also great for vertical surfaces as it’s highly adhesive and won’t drip. Some brands to try out are:
- Loctite Naval Jelly Rust Dissolver
- Summit Brands Iron Out Rust Stain Remover Spray Gel
- Magica Rust Remover Gel
Again, you can easily buy this product at your local store or online.
What is a Rust Converter?
First of all, to know how to use converters and what converter brands to get, you must first understand what rust and a rust converter are.
Rust is easily formed in the environment. All you need is for water, iron, and oxygen to react to each other and voila!
Since you will be using your car out in the open often, you will encounter many environmental elements and pollutants. Most of which you cannot avoid.
That is why rustproofing and undercoating is a much-needed service you need to be applied to any metal surface to provide it with a suitable protective layer.
A rust converter is a chemical primer that when applied turns iron oxide into iron tannate which is a more stable form. Iron oxide is another term for rust. The main ingredients for a converter are tannic acid and an organic polymer.
The advantage of a rust converter is the treatment is less invasive and the only surface treatment needed is a cleaning of loose rust and soiling generally with a wire brush. – NCPTT
This means that the solution doesn’t get rid of rust. It reacts with the iron oxide already there to form a more stable and defensive black coating that can resist moisture and prevent further damage made by corrosion.
Rust Remover vs. Rust Converter
When it comes to their core function, both products have the same goal: to get rid of rust. That is why many people think they are the same.
Almost, but not quite! Like car wax and polish for paint, a remover and converter have a few distinct differences.
How is rust converter different than a rust remover?
A rust remover requires more work. It only takes off the rust that has already formed on the metal.
You will need another product with a chemical such as phosphoric acid to create an acid-based defense coat to prevent further rust formation.
A rust converter isn’t concerned with removal. It actually requires rust to work. The more corrode a part is, the better the performance a converter can give, theoretically.
It uses the rust to make a protective barrier around the metal that’s resistant to moisture, hence, the name converter.
Rust Encapsulator vs. Rust Converter
Another product that is mistaken to be the same as a converter is an encapsulator. They have different functions!
This product can be used in all surface areas to prevent further rust from forming. It can be applied to surfaces that have light to medium rust formation or even bare metal.
Its primary purpose is to stop rust from spreading but it doesn’t change rust to anything else.
Plus, this product needs to be prepped and is not ideal for car parts that are hard to reach.
A rust converter works best with medium to heavy rust formation and would perform poorly with bare metal and mixed surfaces. It needs rust to work since rust is what it transforms to create a protective coating.
How to Use Rust Converter?
Now that you know what a rust converter is and what brands to try out, the next logical question to ask is: how do you use a rust converter and prepare the surface for application?
Don’t worry about this too much! You can use a rust converter in three easy steps!
- Make sure to prep the part. Before treating the specific part, get rid of loose rust particles and dirt with a wire brush or rag.
- Remove smaller particles and grease. Vacuum off very fine particles and de-grease the surface with some sort of mineral spirit like denatured alcohol to ensure that the converter doesn’t react to other elements.
- Apply the product. Use a water-based product made with tannic acid and 2-butoxyethanol to create a thin, black, primer coating. Add another thin layer after 20 minutes and leave to cure for about 48 hours.
Following a step by step guide is helpful, but tips from real life users can prove beneficial as well.
Sometimes they’ve experienced something that the product instructions can’t help you with and knowing what they did can make your application a whole lot easier.
For example, most products would say that they’re already good as a primer but other people might suggest otherwise.
Even though the label says you can paint after it dries into a primer coat, I recommend spraying on a real primer. Then paint. Apply a second coat of converter if you’re not going to paint. Don’t return leftover converter to the bottle—it will contaminate the rest. Toss it in the trash, along with the brush. – Family Handyman
Rust Converter FAQ
These are the frequently asked questions that commonly asked by the people:
- What objects can I use rust converter on?
Rust converter is suitable to use on rusty iron or metal objects that can corrode. A rust converter is frequently used on vehicles, fences and gates, trailers, sheet metal, garden equipment, tractors to name just a few.
Simply put, if you intend to repaint a rusted metal, it’s best to fix the rust by applying the rust converter and repaint it afterward.
- How is rust converter applied?
There are a few ways to apply the rust converter. You can either use a brush, roller or spray. The brush is for smaller applications and a roller for larger surfaces.
Some of the rust converter solutions can be applied using an airless sprayer as well.
- Can I apply rust converter over non-rusted or painted surfaces?
While it’s not wrong to apply rust converter onto a non-rusted surface but it does not provide any additional rust prevention, though.
However, it’s a waste to do that.
If you are looking to prevent metal parts from corroding, then use rust prevention product instead and it can be cheaper too.
- Should rust converter be thinned?
No. Never mix the solution with another product as it might cause the rust converter to become ineffective. Always follow the application instructions that come together with the product to achieve the maximum result.
- How much metal will 1-gallon covers?
Depending on the surface you’re using on, typically a gallon can cover up to 500 square feet of rusted metal if it’s a flat surface.
A porous, textured and irregular surfaces will require more application, though.
- Can I apply a primer coat over rust converter?
It’s possible to apply a layer of oil based primer over rust converter, but the primer will not act as rust prevention, though. Hence, there is no benefit of applying primer over rust converter.
- Should I apply paint over rust converter?
Depending on the environment. If the metal surface is exposed or stay in the outdoor regularly, it’s highly recommended to apply two coats of a quality oil-based paint over rust converter.
However, use oil-based or epoxy paints only. Never use Latex or water-based paints to paint over rust converter.
This additional layer will help to extend the protective qualities of the surface from adverse weather like the rain, salt mist and direct sunlight.
- How long does rust converter need to takes to dry?
Typically, it will take about 20 minutes for the rust converter to dry. And, depending on the surrounding temperature, it can be slower or faster.
Also, it’s recommended to do a double layer to ensure that all spots are adequately covered.
Wait 24 hours (48 hours for an oil-based coat) before applying the second coat of rust converter to allow for curing.
- Can I use rust converter on a heated surface?
No, rust converter cannot withstand heat and shouldn’t be used on things like stove, engine, boiler, or any other heated surface.
- Can I apply rust converter on galvanized steel?
No, you should not use on galvanized steel. This product will only work if there is a high rust present on metal and will not bond well to the galvanized areas.
- Can I apply rust converter inside a tank?
No, it’s not recommended to use inside a tank as you do not want any chemical to leach into whatever is stored inside the container.
However, to use it outside of a tank is perfectly fine.
- What is the shelf life?
There is no specific expiry date for the product per se. But here is what Gemplers the professional tool company has to say:
Paint-on and Sprayable Rust Converter must be used within 9 months from the date of purchase. Aerosol Rust Converter must be used within 12 months. The shelf life applies to the product even if it has not been opened. – Gemplers
- What is the best temperature to apply rust converter?
It’s recommended to apply the product when the temperature is between 50 and 100 degrees F.
Do not apply rust converter if the surface is wet and also avoid direct sunlight. Do not apply if the surface temperature is below 50 degrees F.
- Can I reuse the leftover rust converter after I’ve poured it out of the bottle?
No, never do that! The unfinished product must be discarded immediately. To prevent waste, you can pour out the liquid smaller portion to a container before use.
As mention above, typically a gallon can cover up to 500 square feet of rusted metal if it’s a flat surface.
- How do you dispose of the unused rust converter?
Contact your local regulatory agency to determine the proper method of disposal or company that handle chemical waste.
You can also find more information at the United States Environmental Protection Agency.
- Should I use protective equipment and glove?
Yes, and in fact, it’s a must for safety precaution reason.
Wear a pair of safety glass because the liquid may cause eye irritation if it accidentally goes into your eye.
Also, wear chemical resistant gloves too. Though the chemical is mild and will not cause a burn, but we recommend exercising caution, nonetheless.
- Is rust converter harmful if ingested?
Because this product contains tannic acid and it can be harmful if ingested. Seek medical attention immediately if you accidentally swallow it.
- Is the rust converter fume harmful?
While the fume is not toxic but it is recommended to wear a protective mask if you intend to work with rust converter for an extended period.
No chemical fume is good for your body if you inhale it for a long time.
- How do I store the rust converter?
It is best to store at room temperature. Never expose the product to direct sunlight. Do not allow to freeze and avoid temperatures above 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
