- Location
- Orkney
Got a hydraulic ram that's starting to show signs of rust appearing. Any tips on how to prevent it from getting any worse?
It's a ram that can't be closed the majority of the time. Just the last few inches that's the problem.As said a rub of emery paper to clean it up and if you can, keep the ram pulled in so the chrome isn't exposed.
Did wonder about using emery paper but thought it might open up a bit more around the rust which might allow it to spread more.?? Tried using grease before but rust still seems to appear.You could try polishing the chrome with fine emery paper (or belt even better) keep it wet with diesel. You will find the break in the chrome will be extremely small compared to the amount of rust from it.
But hold tight for more advice from others .........
Yes, it will appear again but, what can you do unless you can keep it covered.
Or re-chrome
Did wonder about using emery paper but thought it might open up a bit more around the rust which might allow it to spread more.?? Tried using grease before but rust still seems to appear.
Obviously dependent on size, but have you any idea how much it costs to re chrome rams
If the ram is pitted by the rust, you can as a semi temporary measure (some I have seen down have lasted for years though) - use a very fine grade emery paper to clean off the rust and de bur as Chrome plating is hard, then clean up the whole area with brake cleaner etc.
Now use a wire brush to get all the rust out of the pitted scores - the mix some strong epoxy resin, smooth over the pitted area (remove as much as possible to reduce sanding), then sand back again to make it smooth.
You may need to epoxy a few times to ensure fully flush. This method also helps prevent seal damage.