Generally speaking, Mercedes Bars have a long lasting coating of chrome on the surfaces that are easily visible to the eye. However, if one looks at the undersides (below rubber moulds), the chrome is not polished and is left in its natural state.
However, the real problem with both front and rear bars are the main support bars that nestle inside the bars, as well the retaining channels for the rubber trim strips. These are prone to heavy surface rust and accumulation of debris, whilst the rubber strips nestling in the channels promote the retention of moisture and subsequent rusting. Also, whilst the rubber strips are reasonably helpful in minimizing small dents damages in the bars, any sort of dent if it is to be "panel beaten" can require complete dismantlement of the bar.
With the main support of the bars, wire brushing and cleaning, plus a good quality rust converter, with a final coat of Killrust paint, will probably extend the longevity of those by a number of years.
As far as the rubber channels are concerned, again heavy wire brushing and rust converter are the initial remedies. I then again apply Kill rust paint (after masking up the plain chrome surfaces), and coat the inside of the bars with a clear application of Fish Oil to retain the original colour of the bar.
It's one of those jobs that can be quite time consuming - if done properly. The main difficulty relates to the plain bolts which are inclined to turn with the retaining nut to be removed. Most of the time, it is necessary to grind a slot into the head of the bolt to be able to use a srew driver. Yeah, a bit of work, but a job well done - if one puts the time and effort into it. Regards Styria
However, the real problem with both front and rear bars are the main support bars that nestle inside the bars, as well the retaining channels for the rubber trim strips. These are prone to heavy surface rust and accumulation of debris, whilst the rubber strips nestling in the channels promote the retention of moisture and subsequent rusting. Also, whilst the rubber strips are reasonably helpful in minimizing small dents damages in the bars, any sort of dent if it is to be "panel beaten" can require complete dismantlement of the bar.
With the main support of the bars, wire brushing and cleaning, plus a good quality rust converter, with a final coat of Killrust paint, will probably extend the longevity of those by a number of years.
As far as the rubber channels are concerned, again heavy wire brushing and rust converter are the initial remedies. I then again apply Kill rust paint (after masking up the plain chrome surfaces), and coat the inside of the bars with a clear application of Fish Oil to retain the original colour of the bar.
It's one of those jobs that can be quite time consuming - if done properly. The main difficulty relates to the plain bolts which are inclined to turn with the retaining nut to be removed. Most of the time, it is necessary to grind a slot into the head of the bolt to be able to use a srew driver. Yeah, a bit of work, but a job well done - if one puts the time and effort into it. Regards Styria
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