9-7X V8-6.0L (2008)
Paint: All Technical Service Bulletins
Body - Bumps or Rust Colored Spots in Paint
TECHNICAL
Bulletin No.: 05-08-51-008C
Date: June 22, 2009
Subject: Bumps or Rust Colored Spots in Paint Due to Rail or Iron Dust (Remove Rail Dust)
Models:
1994-2010 GM Passenger Cars and Trucks (Including Saturn)
2003-2010 HUMMER H2
2006-2010 HUMMER H3
2005-2009 Saab 9-7X
Supercede:
This bulletin is being revised to add model years. Please discard Corporate Bulletin Number 05-08-51-008B (Section 08 - Body and Accessories).
Condition
Visible rust colored spots or bumps on a vehicle's paint surface from rail or iron dust.
Cause
Rail dust comes from tiny iron particles produced from the friction between train wheels and the tracks and gets deposited on the vehicle surfaces. Iron
dust can get deposited on the surface if the vehicle is stored near any operation producing iron dust such as an iron ore yard. Either material can lay on
top of, or become embedded in, the paint surface.
Correction
Because the severity of the condition varies, proper diagnosis of the damage is critical to the success of repairs. Diagnosis should be performed on
horizontal surfaces (hood, roof, deck lid, pick up box, etc.) after the vehicle has been properly cleaned. There are two types of repair materials
recommended to repair rail dust or iron dust:
1. GEL TYPE OXALIC ACID:
- Has the characteristics of the liquid type oxalic acid but stays where you put it because of its gel consistency.
2. CLAY TYPE NON-ACID BASED:
- Requires surface lubricant during use.
- Has different grades available.
Caution
Rail dust remover (Oxalic Acid) is an acidic substance containing chemicals that will break down the iron particles embedded in the finish. When
working with rail dust remover, use the necessary safety equipment, including gloves and goggles. Follow the chemical manufacturer's directions closely
because it may require special handling and disposal.
If, upon inspection, some particles are still present, the various chemical manufacturer's processes can be repeated.
After the removal process, small pits may remain in the clearcoat and can be corrected, in most cases, with a finesse/polish operation.
Procedure
1. Move the vehicle to a cool shaded area and make sure that the vehicle surfaces are cool during the removal process. DO NOT PERFORM THE
REMOVAL PROCESS IN DIRECT SUNLIGHT OR ON A VEHICLE WITH HOT OR WARM BODY PANELS.
2. Wash the vehicle with soap and water. Dry it immediately and clean the affected areas with a wax and grease remover.
3. Perform the removal process according to the chemical manufacturer's directions.
Once the damage has been repaired, the final step involves a polishing process.
Rail Dust Remover Manufacturers
Use the chemical manufacturers listed below, or equivalent:
