280 Soft Top Frame

[ohoraherecaptain]

Hi Guys.
I've had a new soft top fitted to my 280 but the frame really lets it down! I've cleaned it as best I can but the rust marks are ugly on the steel frame - not to mention difficult to access. It looks a lot better than it did so I thought I'd put it out there as I'm sure I'm not the only one who has come up against this problem??
Any recommendations on touching it up? Any particular primer/paint? 
JOH.

[thelews]

wasn't the time to clean/refresh the frame before the new top went on?

[ohoraherecaptain]

Absolutely. However, I got caught with a foot in two different camps i.e. the guys who fitted the ST were not the same people I purchased the item from!! I would have expected them to - at least - raise the question of the condition of the frame, but they did not! They just fitted it.
In an ideal world, it would be best to keep all your eggs in one basket, but it was a budget issue.
It is what it is, so if you have any thoughts on my prior request I would appreciate hearing them?
JOH.   

[thelews]

I don't think I can be of much help there without risking damage and a big mess to the inside of the top/car.

[ohoraherecaptain]

Cheers.
JOH.

[thelews]

Like I said, it could be a big mess, but you could probably steel wool all the rust off and then really mask off everything well and prime and paint (aluminum color) the frame.  You could also, unbolt the top from the car and do it on a work bench away from the car.

[ohoraherecaptain]

Thanks again.
I've already treated it with wire wool. Pissed, really that the guys who fitted the top didn't treat it!
JOH.

[Pawel66]

If I may: if it is difficult to take rust out completely (if this brown stuff is rust), there are chemicals that bind rust and prevent it from further progress. At least in theory. You could try to apply those and then paint as suggested above. I am sure you have something really good for that in your place. It is better than nothing...

[Jimbo1907]

Aluminum foil would work better than steel wool. As steel wool flakes, it leaves bits of itself around, which then rust. Aluminum foil won't do that. Try it. There is a silver Rustoleum paint which might be brushed onto those areas and help a bit.

[ohoraherecaptain]

Thanks guys.
I'll keep you posted.