2004 Front under brace?

[jamesm182]

My car has the 2004 factory under brace fitted. Did these come only on facelift models or 2004 onwards?

Anyway, mine is quite rusty - still looks solid (I think) but I guess the metal is quite thin and may not clean up that well?

What would everyone suggest? Have a go at cleaning it or replace it? Can they still be purchased new and if so rough cost? Can't seem to see any second hand ones on ebay?

[jeffsimply]

Just how rusty are we talking?

It's going to have a bit of rust on it being 12 years old, doubt it's that bad though?

[Topdownman]

Definitely try cleaning, rust treatment and then some suitable paint.

Probably then going to need to redo every few years but I would doubt there would be a need to replace.

[gazza1286]

All of the face lift under body struts/spars can be unbolted and rust-treated on a bench.

[hamspeed]

It's mostly just surface rust... Mine was quite corroded so I had it sandblasted and painted with an epoxy anti rust paint. Though you could also have it powdercoated.

[jamesm182]

Just how rusty are we talking?

It's going to have a bit of rust on it being 12 years old, doubt it's that bad though?

It does look reasonably rusty but the car has spend most of its life in Scotland. I'll try and get a photo when I get a minute.

[jamesm182]

It's this type. I was just wondering if the metal on the arms would be too thin as it doesn't look that thick.

[smart51]

Bush off anything loose.  Inspect for holes.  If there are none, treat with rust converter like Krust.  Paint.  Waxoyl or Dinitrol.  Sorted.

If there are small holes, replace, give the old one to me and I'll weld in a patch and fit it to my car!

[jamesm182]

Thanks guys think I will give it a go cleaning it up and painting