plastic and rust

[Mark McDonald <tomswift@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Yes, that's true, I forgot about that.  But with metal there's a lot
more there to begin with, at least.  When I made that comment I was
thinking of some of the exterior trim pieces on my "new" car (a '96)
that had faded and become so brittle you could break them easily.  It
takes a little longer for metal to get that way.

I think some manufacturers do use plastic coatings now-- I seem to
remember reading about a plastic coating being applied to the
underbodies of some cars as far back as '74 or so.  But I don't know if
even that stops everything.

I think what I'd really like is some sort of way to "shrinkwrap" or seal
your old Imperial with something that will preserve it for years to come
. . . without just trapping corrosion in.

Mark M

Jim Gathmann wrote:

> True.. but the finish on metal cars (paint) can be
> just as damaged by pollution and such. Even worse in
> the case of acid rain.
>
> Personally, I think the ultimate car would be a steel
> body coated in plastic. No rust, 'cause the water
> won't be able to get near the metal, yet as strong and
> supportive as metal. Seems more realistic then
> electric rust stoppers and inches of rubber
> undercoating.