Rust on Roof Vents

[Joyce H]

Have a question for all you knowledgeable MOC members. We have noticed we are getting a large amount of rust on the metal rims around our roof vents (inside and out). In further checking the metal is cold to the touch as it extends outside. Condensation forms on the metal inside when we have higher temps inside the coach and lower temps outside. We would like to clean off the rust and prevent future rusting. Went to Home Depot and bought some Naval Jelly, but it says on jar "Use on metal, steel, or iron. Do not use on aluminum or chrome." So first question...Does anyone know what this metal in our roof vents is?? Next has anyone else had this problem? Found a suggessful way to clean off the rust? Found a way to prevent future rusting?

Would appreciate any feedback you experienced folks have had with this problem. Thanks

[CountryGuy]

Joyce,

There was a small problem a while back. SOME of us got some bad vents. We got ONE. The other 3 have never had a problem.

The problem was in the manufacturing, not enough plating on the steel. We were still in warranty and it was replaced.

Think I remember someone else addressing this situation on the forum, maybe a search?? Seems to me they painted it. Al says if any more of ours do rust, he will be painting them.

If you decide to go the replacement route, Al reminds me that you need to be very careful to get the new vent completely sealed, so no leaks.

Carol

[sreigle]

I'm not sure what that metal is but once you remove the rust you might paint with something like Rustoleum or similar product that is supposed to prevent rusting. Naval Jelly is some pretty strong stuff so be careful with it. If the rust isn't too bad I'd be tempted to try some fine sandpaper first, then paint with rustoleum. You can get it in metallic colors. You can even get it in what looks like chrome if you want shiny vents. I think the metal is a "sheet metal" but I'm not positive.