I'm currently doing the rust bubbles and holes down the sides of Charlie between the body and the rear wings (kurust, zinc undercoat, topcoat). The restoration manual suggests that I cavity wax fill the gap between the body and wing. Is that a good idea?

Thanks

Justin

Hi Justin. Do you mean the flat flanges that the bolts go through, with the décor trim in between? If so, then I'd say 'yes'. Definitely. That is one of the 2CV's most obvious rust traps.

After removing any existing rust, and priming & painting the surfaces, I'd personally use a 'Waxoyl' - type product (about the only stuff that won't 'crack' and fail) and brush a thick layer on to the wing flange and the matching rear panel - and also on both sides of the trim piece. Bolt it all up, and wipe away the excess on the bodywork side, wiping the extruded Waxoyl tightly back into between the sides of the trim. Waxoyl can be wiped away cleanly like this before it 'dries', and even afterwards by using a little white-spirits. Then spray additional Waxoyl to protect the whole underside of the wing(s) aiming a fair bit against this seam from below to fully cover it. That should do the job...

Obviously, the whole underside will benefit from Waxoyl - or similar. The return edges of the rear wings are also a pain - they will collect dirt and keep it damp, perfect for rust to form. When you Waxoyl under the wings, give this return a good layer, and also allow the spray to come over the edge and on to the painted lip that faces the tyres - any stuff that goes 'too far' and is visible from the side can be wiped away. But the actual sharp wing edge - and a little beyond - should be covered.

Ditto with the front wings - remove them and spray liberally along the lower bulkhead right to each side and around where the wing will cover it and it can't be seen (again, don't worry about over-spray - once the wing is replaced, just wipe away any visible stuff until it all looks clean). Spray inside that 'box' part at the back of the front wings, and replace them after brushing a fair dollop along where they touch the body. Again, wipe away excess afterwards to leave it neat.

ah thanks for that, i wasn't sure if it was a drainage point or not, but then I should trust the manual I suppose. I've got dinitrol cavity wax spays and the underbody one, so its a matter of getting them on.