[schatzy]

Hi, I was wondering what everyone's take is on using wax & grease remover on sandblasted metal. I have heard that it shouldn't be done. Should or can a guy just spray it down with some lacquer thinner? Thanks, Don

[astroracer]

Wax and grease remover is formulated to work as described. I don't know who told you to not use it but it will work fine on bare steel... I wouldn't spray primer without it... Use the blue shop "paper towels" for application and removal. They are lint free.
Mark

[schatzy]

Thanks. I heard or read someplace that you shouldn't use it because it will get into the pits caused by the sandblasting and not wipe out.

[astroracer]

The stuff will evaporate before you start spraying. It is very volatile and won't "stand" on the surface like water...
Mark

[jim..]

I usually just wipe the metal down with a 3M pad to remove any sand or other media that may be embedded in the metal,and then prime and paint,never had a problem.

I find if you try to use cloth or paper,the roughness of the metal tends to tear off little peices and you end up with more of a mess than you started with.

If the compressor that was used for blasting wasn't pushing a bunch of oil into the sand,the surface will be fine for painting,usually the sand will carry any dirt or oil off the surface of the metal,leaving it very clean.

[schatzy]

Thanks for the replies.

[red65mustang]

just be aware that some wax and grease removers are really slow to evaporate.....you want fast.....otherwise it is dirty again with dust nibs before it dries

[BarryK]

Astro racer has it on the money.

Never use a lacquer thinner to prep metal, you would be better off using nothing.

With wax and grease remover wipe on and dry off before drying but let the bare metal set for 10-15 minutes just in case you do have solvents in the pits.
Some people will use a blower while they tach off the car.

It is the best way to clean metal and waterborne wax and grease remover will work even better than solvent type.