So i'm replacing the rusted out areas on my Z and there are certain areas that are pitted, but not rusted through. The metal is still pretty solid so my question is this. Do I need to remove all pitted metal? or could I get away with only replacing the rotted areas and then spraying the pitted area with a product like POR15, then primer, and some body filler then paint? The entire car has been sandblasted so the pitted areas aren't rusted anymore.

I think we'll need the definition of "pretty solid". One of the easiest ways of defining "pretty solid" is with an ice pick or other sharp implement of destruction. The force of your poking and or stabbing is directly proportional to the strength of the remaining steel. As far as the pitted sections, just normal bodywork and paint. Good luck and wear gloves.

Mark In Portland

For me, i look at the back side of the metal that has rust. If its discolored or has any signs of rust I cut out that area and put in new metal.

I've noticed

metal thats been cleaned of rust, rusts faster

if left open to the air as opposed to new metal. It's

like the rusty metal has broken down like meat thats left out of the refrigerator.

I think we'll need the definition of "pretty solid". One of the easiest ways of defining "pretty solid" is with an ice pick or other sharp implement of destruction. The force of your poking and or stabbing is directly proportional to the strength of the remaining steel. As far as the pitted sections, just normal bodywork and paint. Good luck and wear gloves.

Mark In Portland

Yep that's how I test it too... screwdriver and a hammer. If it pokes through... Ive been replacing it.

Rust never stops. Recommend removing all run and not using catalyst if possible.