Bicycle Mechanics - Framesaver Over Existing Rust?

I have a 01 Lemond Buenos Aires. Its 853 steel. I've decided to apply some framesaver. I know there's a bunch of posts on applying framesaver, but none seem to answer my exact question. That being: There's already some rust in the frame. Nothing major, more just a surface rust color. I can wipe it out pretty easily in the BB and seattube. However, it may be in some of the other tubes. Can I just framesaver over this? Or do I need to somehow wash out the stays, downtube, etc.? I just don't want to lock in evil rust. Thoughts?

I don't see you how you can de-rust the inside of the tubes readily and framesaver certainly would not hurt.

the frame will generally rust in places where water collects. BB will be the worst off.
rust will not spread from just leaving it there, so really soak the insides with frame saver and you should be good.

Ok, thanks.

I've framesaver'd a number of already rusty frames, and I can say for sure it doesn't hurt any. The rust won't go any further as long as there isn't water sloshing around in there when you hit it with framesaver. For really wet frames it's a good idea to blow out all the water you can with compressed air and let it sit inside a reasonably dry place before using framesaver.

I wrap a rag around a sturdy stick drenched in wd40 and push it through. Then let it dry apply framesaver.

I usually pump wd-40 through first to kind of flush out any rust I can, or when things are bad, like if there's a bad spot, I pour phosphoric acid in there and try to keep it over the rust for a while and let it do its work- turns rust into iron phosphate- then framesaver.

I don't see you how you can de-rust the inside of the tubes readily and framesaver certainly would not hurt.

You derust the inside of the frame by treating it with oxalic acid.

But if it is not too bad (not crusty) you probably will be OK with just framesaver. The bottom bracket area is often the worst, so if it OK, that is a great sign.

Here's what a crusty BB looks like, before and after oxalic.

Note, you don't need water (liquid) to create rust. There is moisture in the air (humidity).

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3052/2928844131_22946402f7.jpghttp://farm4.static.flickr.com/3057/2928844565_f0727a7c91.jpg

I pour phosphoric acid in there and try to keep it over the rust for a while and let it do its work- turns rust into iron phosphate-

Naval Jelly is one version. My contact cleaning system also is Phosphoric acid. Too dilute though. Not enough moles...

You derust the inside of the frame by treating it with oxalic acid.


Yes. If you can soak the thing that's rusted oxalic acid is the way to go.