Painting rusty trailer hitch

1. Can you paint over rust on a trailer?
2. How do I remove rust from my hitch receiver?
3. Is painting over rust bad?

Can you paint over rust on a trailer?

Yes, you can spray paint over rust. Before you paint, take the time to prepare your surface properly. Spray paint surface preparation preparation is extremely important and is the best predictor of how long your new paint finish will last.

How do I remove rust from my hitch receiver?

If you have a chrome ball or chrome hitch that's showing signs of rust, simply ball up a piece of aluminum foil, dip it in white distilled vinegar or Coca-Cola and lightly rub the rusty spots. Rinse with warm water and dry with a soft, clean rag. Follow up by polishing with two coats of carnuba car wax.

Is painting over rust bad?

Rust is weak, so any paint over it will hold weak. As long as the paint film over rusty part is broken, water and atmosphere contacts the metal and start to erode it, resulting in more paint film be destroyed. So it is critical to remove all rust from the surface being painted.