Community Forums

NW RV GUY · 03-17-2025, 04:16 PM

Hello,

We have a 2024 ORV 250RDS Titanium. Bought it brand new in February of 2024. We keep it covered and I noticed some rust on the top part of the hitch at the front. Where the ball goes in right at the from there is a little channel where water can collect.

Our Keystone Passport ended up having some rust spots on the tow hitch and frame up front that I simply sanded down and sprayed with Rust oleum.

The trailer is obviously only just over 1 year old and I know this will happen, but what do you all recommend or may have used that has well for you.

Thank you for your input.

Mordecai · 03-17-2025, 06:59 PM

The frame on my 2019 ORV had a light coating of rust almost from new. It was, and perhaps still is, a common complaint with these frames Northwoods welds up for ORV. I roughed mine up as well as I could and painted it with POR 15 and then top coated with Rustoleum. That was 7 seasons ago and it is holding up well except the tongue A-frame and hitch area need constant attention. Every spring I wire brush the rusty spots and scrape off the loose paint and coat it again, usually just with Rustoleum, then spot spray through the season. It's just how these frames operate.

laura970 · 03-18-2025, 06:37 AM

Ditto on POR-15 (along with recommended prep). Painted the frame where I could get to it. Did not do a second coat and seems to be holding. I've done some on the hitch, but it's due for a full coat.

Dave Pelletier · 03-18-2025, 08:48 AM

Good advice though I am too lazy for some of it! A wire wheel on a drill and some Rustoleum and I'd call it done. Repeat as necessary.

Cumminsfan · 03-18-2025, 09:29 AM

Guess I got lucky as I have thick paint runs on the A frame. Better too much than not enough.

Vertburn · 03-24-2025, 11:50 AM

Ok I'll chime in as well, I go after the rusty spots at least once a year if not more. Wire brush, brake clean a large area around the rust and repaint with rust inhibitor paint. It is also important to thoroughly wash off the undercarriage of the trailer after driving down dirt roads for a while. Many have a dust prevent chemical sprayed on them that can etch metal and fiberglass. Especially mine roads. My friend used to sell the chemicals and advised me of this. Wash the tow vehicle as well.

VanDiemen23 · 03-24-2025, 02:08 PM

have a beer and stop worrying about it....

Gooma · 03-24-2025, 02:48 PM

You can make yourself nuts with every little rust spot. Wire brush and repaint. This happens to any exposed metal. Have you ever looked under your car? There are rust spots all over the suspension and drive line parts.
A tiny pinhole that doesn't get enough paint or a small rock chip and you have a place for rust to start.