Laser Rust Treatment

  1. My model of MX-5 is: __NA 1.8 1993
  2. I’m based near: __Croydon
  3. I’m looking for technical help or recommendations on: __ Rust removal using laser

I’m looking at building a “new” rear subframe set up to replace my existing which has layers of crust and rust on the subframe so that I can do a quick swap out with limited downtime. What I’ve found available so far is pretty much the same condition as what I have, so I’m loathed to spend the money buying replacement second-hand parts, when I could be spending the money more wisely. Has anyone rust treated their car using a laser cleaning machine? If so was it your own, did you hire it, or did someone else complete the work? How expensive was it? What was the result? I’ve looked online and mostly found machines to hire for 6-12 months, or Ali Express adverts for dubious looking machines. I’m based in SE London, so if anyone knows of a company who does this service I’d be very grateful to have their details.

EDIT. The underside of the car has general surface rust, so the plan was to just keep everything in place and use the laser over all of it without removing parts. I think I’m going to remove the subframes and arms and have them dipped, then galvanised (is this worth it?), but with limited lifting abilities at home, the laser to remove paint and rust from the underside, then prep and paint myself seems to be the least invasive. I’d rather pay for speed here.

Get a second hand subframe shotblasted. If its really rusty, laser rust removal is not going to make it stronger.

From what I have read laser removal is very expensive too, I would agree with the above get a second hand one and either clean it and paint yourself or get it blasted and paint it with one of the modern epoxy systems rather than powdercoating.