So the master cylinder had apparently been leaking for ever. I replaced it last month. I had always noticed the shriveled paint on the driverside engine bay, but could never see it in much detail. When I had removed the master cylinder, I realised how extensive the damage is.

I touched the inner-fender in the engine bay and the paint stuck to my finger and peeled off the engine bay. Theres about a 5" by 10" patch that is completely bare metal.

I need to fix this and keep it from rusting through. It doesn't appear that there is any rust on it yet, probably just flast rush if there is. How can I do it? I know I need to wipe off all the old brake fluid, but its not exactly easy to get down there with a spray can. Even at that, do I just spray and it and let it set?

Any ideas?

 

I'd try one of those small disposable foam paint brushes.

Dab on..

 

what type of paint should I use?

 

I had some bare metal by my battery terminal where some battery acid must've leaked. But to protect it until I remove my engine and repaint it I just covered up the surrounding things with newspaper and sprayed 4 or 5 coats of clearcoat over it for some protection. This was after going over with with a brush to get excess pealing paint off and then cleaning it with some degreaser.

 

Actually the brake fluid would keep it from rusting - for a little while.

A guy I know who restores old cars says when they get a project heap and don't have time to work on it, they rub heavy grease into the existing rust and spray oil on any exposed metal. But that's junk sitting outside, not a rotary engine compartment.

But you got it right, the best way is paint. Preparation is important, I'd sand off lots of paint around the afflicted areas, clean completely with solvent (like brake fluid cleaner) then take many hours with newspaper and masking tape to protect everything not getting painted. Then prime, let dry, then color.

And keep us posted. Get pics if you can.

 

i would put some spray primer and some spray paint that matches pretty good

 

sso the standard rattle cans will do the job? prepping that fenderwell is going to suck, I may have to remove the coil packs, and a good portion of the clusterfuck-wireloom.