I've got a few little rust spots starting on my E39 that I want to knock out before winter. I've also got one of those little Harbor Freight/Tractor Supply Company spot sandblasters, but I've never used it. Seems perfect for this job, but I could use a little guidance on what media to use and other tips so I don't make a complete hash of it. The basic plan is to clean it up, apply POR-15 or similar, skim where necessary, and paint. Any insight is appreciated.
I hear glass is great for deep rust. Walnut chips are good for lighter stuff. Easy to clean up, safe, biodegradable. Black Beauty is a popular media, not sure exactly what it is, but my buddy uses it.
Whatever you do, don't be the idiot that uses playground sand. Silicosis is a real danger. Not worth the money savings.
I've read that baking soda makes a good medium, too, but I have to believe you'd need slightly different equipment....
Making soda works, but is soo fine that it's very slow. Black Beauty is cole slag. It's aggressive as all get out, but will texture just about anything softer than cast iron.
I used black beauty to fix some on my E36 with one of those $15 bucket blaster kits. Works a charm, but I used a whole 20lb bag of the black beauty for about a 3"x3" total area over three spots to clear the rust completely. And that E36 M3 gets everywhere, so safety goggles, a safety mask, ear plugs, and respirator at minimum for my money.
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