Galvanized or not?

[klaus]

Hi,

 

I know that European Subies are galvanized under the paint and I just assumed that North American models are as well. But... there's nothing about it in the brochure... Does anybody know if they are?

 

Thanks,

klaus.

[mwiener2]

I don't think it matters much.

[PhilT]

Well it kinda helps fend off the evil rustivitus if they are galvanised.

[mwiener2]

but for the rust to get there, the paint has to be gone. And a galvanized coating can be scraped or scratched just like paint.

[PhilT]

Yes, but that's when the zinc in the galvanic coating starts to work. When it's scratched through to reveal the steel underneath, it will act as a sacrificial anode, so that the steel doesn't rust. It's the same principle as putting chunks of zinc on a steel hull ship. The zinc corrodes before the steel, and when the zinc is gone you replace it, leaving the steel in good condition.

[klaus]

It's much more difficult to get under the galvanization layer than it is under the paint. If paint chips off, galvanization still protects against rust. It's a hot process and it sticks much better to the bare metal than paint.

[mwiener2]

well, the better question here is probly; How much steel do we actaully have?

 

I think our cars are over 50% Aluminum

[mccorry]

The hood and deck lids are aluminum.

Our cars have an Electrodeposition coating below the base coating..... I've never heard of galvanized metal being used for stampings....

[Guest *Jedimaster*]

our cars are over 50% Aluminum

O RLY?

[klaus]

mccorry answered the question -- there are two galvanization methods - hot dipping and electrodeposition. Based on his answer it's the latter.

 

Anybody else? jedimaster?

[mwiener2]

hood, deck, doors, panels, engine