What is the best thing to do to treat trunk/floor braces before welding to prevent rust intrusion later on? What I am trying to convey is the inside of the braces. If I prime and paint or por 15 on the inside of the braces, when I weld them to the trunk pan or floor pan, how can I keep the heat from ruining my paint protection. What would be the best thing to do? Por 15 the inside and leave the portion to weld bare and use weld through primer? What have some of you done to ensure this inner area is protected after welding is done and you cannot get anything on the inside of the brace?

Thanks,
Mike

It's simple really but a darn good question.

Make sure that both the trunk panel and braces are completely clean & free of contaminants. Then spray on some welding zinc (Zinc Mate) in a very thin layer on both pieces to be welded. Then weld away. The Zinc provides protection and bonds to the welded steel. Afterwards you can spray your favourite anti-rust agent into the brace. Remember that the un-heated zinc (after welding) can be wiped away and should be cleaned up as much as you can. Then topcoat the surfaces with your primer & paint, depending on what you are using.

Hope it Helps.