Do I Need to Remove the Tires When Applying Chassis Armor?
2 Answers
Applying chassis armor requires removing the tires. The role of chassis armor: Chassis armor involves spraying a rust-proof adhesive containing asphalt, oil-based, or water-soluble materials onto the chassis. It covers the exposed parts of the chassis, and once cooled and solidified, forms a dense protective film that safeguards the vehicle's undercarriage. Precautions for applying chassis armor: The oil pan and transmission oil pan should not be sprayed as they require heat dissipation. Similarly, body support components that need movement should not be coated. Therefore, the main areas for application are the fuel tank and the vehicle floor. Additionally, it is crucial to thoroughly clean the underside of the car before spraying to ensure proper adhesion of the armor.
When applying undercoating, whether to remove the tires is something I've done several times, depending on the approach. If you're coating the entire undercarriage, it's best to remove the tires. This allows direct access to the wheel wells and suspension components, avoiding missed spots. The tires can block many corners, and without removal, masking tape might not cover everything, leading to rust starting from those areas—which is terrible. I remember last time helping a friend; they sprayed without removing the tires, and rust spots appeared soon after, forcing a redo. It's advisable to have it done by a professional shop—they usually remove the tires for a more even application, extending the protective effect. The key to undercoating is thorough coverage; otherwise, you waste money on incomplete protection. Weather plays a big role, with the rainy season increasing rust risks, so cleaning the undercarriage of dust before spraying is essential.
