FAQ - CORROSION
One of our primary goals is to address corrosion issues by choosing premium materials and adding surface treatments that resist corrosion and increase the lifespan of the rack.
The frame is made from anodized 6061-T6 Aluminum, while the mast, wheel baskets and rear wheel holder are 304 Stainless Steel, which brings a level of corrosion resistance that is far superior to powder coated steel. With the stainless parts, we go two steps further by sandblasting then electropolishing them. All hardware is also 304 Stainless Steel.
The hitch spigot is made from high strength A500 Grade C structural steel. Unfortunately Stainless Steel is not suitable for this application, so we've applied the best treatments to resist corrosion; sandblasted then hot dip galvanized.
Despite this, harsh environments such as salted roads and coastal areas affected by sea spray can still cause surface corrosion and is not covered by warranty unless it creates a structural issue. If you are driving while roads are salted, we recommend storing the rack when not in use for extended periods and rinsing it after use to get the maximum lifespan and to keep the finishes looking as fresh as possible. We've taken the best steps possible to prevent corrosion, but salt is still the enemy.
If you experience surface tarnishing on the stainless-steel components, we’ve found the best way to remove it is to use a stainless-steel brush wheel (the type that attaches to a cordless drill). It’s important that the brush is NOT mild steel, and must specifically be stainless (or nylon) or it will leave ferrous particles in the surface that will corrode. Since the base material of the rack parts in question are stainless, you can brush it without concern about stripping coatings.