Re: [DML] Driving DMC on salted roads

[Nick Kemp <nkemp1165@xxxxxxxxx>]

I agree with Rod.  The original owner of my D drove the car on MN roads and it did substantial frame & suspension component damage.  What happens is that the epoxy coating cracks or chips then moisture and salt get to the bare metal and it eats the metal between the two layers of protective epoxy coating.  Only now the epoxy is protecting the salt and moisture mix instead of the metal.  I had various spots of rust-through, the trailing arms were shot and one trailing arm bolt was corrosion "welded"  to the trailing arm.

Another reason for not driving in the winter is poor handling.  The D gets good traction due to the rear weight.  But the steering is poor due to the light front end.  So if you are planning on going straight it might be OK.

No good can come out of driving the D in the winter.  Even though my frame is partially zinc chromated, and has 3 layers of powdercoating I refuse to drive after the salt hits.  Besides, it is the other driver that I'm worried about hitting me!

Nick
897 (with a born again frame due to rust)

Rod Dillman wrote , ----On 12/13/2013 4:56 PM ---------------------------:

 

Hello Adam,

My first DeLorean was driven on the salted WV roads before I purchased it. When I sent it to be restored,  the frame was too far gone to refurbish.

Based on that experience, I would only drive a stainless frame DeLorean on winter roads. I have doubts that there is any procedure that will effectively remove road salts from all areas of the frame. As for coatings, this topic has been discussed before numerous times and based upon those discussions I again have doubts that there is a system that will protect all areas of the frame. There are many rust prone areas of the frame that are impossible to get to with coatings. 

I will be interested in hearing from others who may be of more help to you.

Rod

10921

Sent from my iPad

On Dec 13, 2013, at 5:16 PM, Adam Troy <abtphd@xxxxxxxxx> wrote:

 

Hi all,

I'm looking to continue driving the D during the winter (NY/NJ area) where roads are frequently salted. What is the best way to prevent corrosion/rust of the car (short of hosing it off every time I drive)? Is there a commercial undercoating that a mechanic can apply that does not involve any major work (i.e., removing the frame) or another type of undercarriage sealant/service you would recommend?

Thanks again,

Adam

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