DIY fix - rust around camper mains hookup socket

[htw-bu]

Any tips on how to DIY fix this rust around the electric hookup socket? Or is it more involved and needs a bodyshop?

I replaced the socket last year due to the original one plastic one splitting, it appears the weather seal is not good enough/installed incorrectly on the new one.

Thanks

[Belle427]

Looks as if it has spread quite badly outside the area of the socket body too, id let a bodyshop tackle it personally.
Depends how fussy you are with the finish, usual procedure would be to grind back to clean metal, apply a rust converter type product, prime and then paint. You would also want to check it behind too if you can access it.
Problem is if this isnt done properly it will continue to spread under the socket again.

[trevalvole]

With the rust being concentrated around the screw holes, as well as water getting in via the seal, could there be a cathodic corrosion issue between dis-similar metals in the bodywork and screws?

[finlo]

If it was mine I would kill the rust and disguise it with some sort of larger gasket otherwise you'll be in for a very expensive whole side respray.

Edited by finlo on Sunday 21st January 15:43