Dealing with Rusty Rails in Your Scheel-Mann Vario

The Common Encounter with Rust

We are starting to see it more and more—folks surprised by rusty rails (no, not rusty nail, that's Scotch and Drambuie). Unless you live in the Southwest desert, you are likely going to see some rust on your seat rails. There are a few reasons for this: maybe you live near the coast, perhaps you reside in a rain-prone area, or maybe you've spilled a few drinks.

Or maybe you sweat—like a LOT!

When you commit to your scheel-mann Vario investment to help mitigate your sore back issues during long drives, the last thing you want to face is rusty rails. You're knee-deep into the teardown of your old OEM seats, and then you confront this unexpected problem. What should you do?

Options for Handling Rust

Well, it’s definitely not the end of the world. You have several options to deal with rusty rails:

1. Ignore It: You could absolutely ignore the rust. Only the seat feet will be seen once everything is reassembled.

   
   

2. Use Silicone Oil: A quick solution is to spray the rust with some silicone oil. This will prevent any further rusting and protect the metal.

   
   

3. DIY Cleaning: If you prefer to make the rails look good again, take the time to clean the rust. Grab a wire wheel for your cordless drill, put on some safety goggles, and spend some time grinding away the rust.

   
   

4. Vinegar Bath: One of the most effective methods involves using a gallon of industrial vinegar (acetic/ethanoic acid) for about $10 from your local hardware store. This method is often overlooked but yields fantastic results.

   
   

The Vinegar Bath Method

To utilize the vinegar bath method, follow these steps:

1. Get Your Supplies: You will need a gallon of industrial vinegar and an unused disposable aluminum turkey pan.

   
   

2. Prepare the Bath: Pour the vinegar into the turkey pan.

   
   

3. Submerge the Rails: Carefully place the rails into the vinegar upside down. Make sure that the feet and sliders (bearings and grease) are above the vinegar.

   
   

4. Let It Sit: Allow the rails to soak in the vinegar for several hours. It’s a good idea to check on them every few hours. You will likely notice that most, if not all, of the rust will either vanish or become easy to wipe off.

   
   

5. Final Steps: Once you remove the rails from the vinegar bath, be sure to wipe them down thoroughly. Avoid letting any vinegar drip into the slider mechanism.

   
   

Additional Tips for Maintaining Your Scheel-Mann Vario

Regular Inspections

To prevent future rust issues, conduct regular inspections of your seat rails, especially if you live in humid or coastal areas. Look for early signs of rust and take action to clean it promptly.

Protective Coating

Applying a protective coating after cleaning can help safeguard against rust. Consider using a rust-inhibitive spray or even paint designed for metal that can withstand moisture.

Cover and Store

If your scheel-mann Vario is not going to be used for a while, consider covering it to protect against dust and moisture. Proper storage can make a huge difference in the longevity of your investment.

Stay Informed

Keep yourself informed about the best practices for caring for your automotive interior. Knowledge is power. Whether it’s about frequent cleaning or the best products to use, being informed will help you maintain your investment.

Rusty rails can be a hassle, but they don't have to ruin your experience with your scheel-mann Vario. By following these steps and tips, you can effectively tackle rust and maintain a comfortable driving experience.

Rusty rails? Try a vinegar bath