Fender beading and mounting question about rust prevention

[Martin S.]

So I get to re-assemble my car once it's painted (yay) and wondering what you UK guys do to help prevent rust happening in the joint where the fenders bolt on. Yes, we have that wet stuff here in Southern Ontario too. Dust gets in there and attracts moisture which rusts the metal. When I disassembled the car, I found I had used some bathtub silicone caulking in there which did work ok but not ideal as I don't really want the fenders glued in place. My painter suggested I use lithium (white) grease as it won't attack the rubber/plastic fender beading and will prevent rust there. Any other suggestions besides moving? 

[RobtheManx]

I use a product called Morris Anchor Wax , you can get it in black or clear , I use clear . Its runny , gloopy wax stuff , solidifies a bit , but not totally  . I brush it and spray it everywhere ! Brush a bit on every bolt I put in . inside the doors , in the heater channels , even use it round the window opening to help put the windows in . brush some on the body and fender lip before I put the beading in .

Thanks , Rob

[neil68]

When my 68 Beetle was painted 12 years ago, I installed NOS fender beading with new stainless bolts. I would not recommend any sealant as it may trap moisture in the seams.

The wax sounds better, as it would allow the moisture to evaporate. I'm sure my beading has some waxy residue from waxing the paint over the years

[RichardinNZ]

Is Ankor wax similar to Waxoyl or other Cavity Wax (Wurth or other brands), or is it somehow different, thicker etc?  Just thinking about what may be locally available elsewhere in the world.

Thanks
Richard

[Iryanu]

I spray gibbs (http://www.gibbsbrandeurope.com/) everything much the same way Rob uses the anchor wax. I'm also using dinitrol 3125 cavity wax for the channels / doors / bottom of front wings etc for places hidden away. Sadly, only time will tell if it's any good.