What is cannon fat and why does a car need it?
Gun lard is a thick, petroleum-based preservative lubricant originally developed to protect artillery guns from corrosion. Today, it is actively used by car owners to treat hidden cavities of the body, bottom and other metal parts that are susceptible to rust. Unlike modern anti-corrosion compounds, cannon lard is different high adhesion, durability (protection period up to 3–5 years) and the ability to displace moisture from treated surfaces.
The main advantage of this material is versatility. It is suitable for processing:
- 🚗 hidden cavities (thresholds, side members, bumper reinforcements);
- 🔧 threaded connections (bolts, nuts, studs);
- 🔩 electrical wiring (battery terminals, connectors);
- 🛠️ tools and spare parts for long-term storage.
However, cannon fat also has disadvantages: it not compatible with most paints (can corrode them), does not tolerate high temperatures (over +80°C) and requires careful surface preparation before application. In addition, it is difficult to remove from hands and clothes - for this you will need solvents such as White spirit or Solvent.
Types of cannon fat: which one to choose for a car
There are several varieties of cannon lard on the market, differing in composition and purpose. Classic GOST 19537-83 (or its modern analogues) contains up to 95% petroleum oils and thickeners. For cars, it is better to choose specialized compounds with anti-corrosion additives. Let's look at the main types:
| Lard type | Composition | Scope of application | Protection period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic (GOST) | Petroleum oils, ceresin, additives | Hidden cavities, tools | 2–3 years |
| With anti-corrosion additives | Oils + corrosion inhibitors | Bottom, sills, arches | 3–5 years |
| Heat resistant | Synthetic oils, graphite | Exhaust system, brakes | 1–2 years |
| With preservatives | Oils + volatile inhibitors | Long-term storage of parts | 5+ years |
Lard with corrosion inhibitors (for example, Movil with cannon fat or Noxudol 700). These compounds not only create a protective film, but also actively neutralize rust that has already begun. For threaded connections it is better to use graphite lubricant — it does not drain and does not collect dust.
⚠️ Attention: Don't confuse cannon fat with lithol or solid oil! These lubricants are not designed to provide long-term corrosion protection and dry out quickly, exposing the metal.
Preparing the vehicle before application
The quality of anti-corrosion treatment depends 70% on surface preparation. If you apply lard to rust or dirt, it will not be able to fully protect the metal. Here is a step-by-step preparation algorithm:
- Washing and drying. Wash the car thoroughly using car shampoo (for example, Karcher or Sonax). Pay special attention to hidden cavities - use
steam generatororcompressorto blow out moisture. - Removing rust. Clean out areas of corrosion
wire brushorsandblaster. Suitable for small stains rust converter (for example, Tsinkar). - Degreasing. Wipe surfaces White spirit or Antisilicon. This will remove any remaining oils and ensure better adhesion of the lard.
- Disguise. Tape it up
masking tapeelements that should not be processed (rubber seals, plastic parts).
Remove dirt and dust from the body|Dry hidden cavities|Remove rust|Degrease surfaces|Seal untreated elements-->
If you are processing the bottom, first remove protection (if present) and check the condition of the drainage holes. Clogged holes will cause moisture to accumulate under the grease, which will accelerate corrosion. To clean, use flexible shaft with attachment or wire.
To speed up drying of hidden cavities, use heat gun at minimum power. Direct a stream of warm air into the drainage holes for 10-15 minutes.
Technique for applying cannon lard: step-by-step instructions
You can apply cannon lard in several ways: brush, spray or syringe for hidden cavities. The choice of method depends on the area being treated. Let's consider each option in detail.
1. Application by brush
Suitable for open surfaces (underbody, arches, side members). Use natural bristle brush 5–10 cm wide. Algorithm:
- 🖌️ Place a small amount of lard on the brush.
- 🔄 Apply thin layer (1–2 mm) with uniform movements along the metal.
- 🔁 Repeat treatment after 10-15 minutes to fill microcracks.
2. Spray
Effective for hidden cavities. Will be required anticorrosive gun (for example, Krautzberger) and a compressor with a pressure of 2–3 atm. Spray rules:
- 🎯 Keep the nozzle at a distance of 15–20 cm from the surface.
- 🌀 Move the gun in a spiral, starting from the bottom point.
- ⏳ Apply lard until light drips from drainage holes.
3. Injection
Used for spot processing (thresholds, amplifiers). Apply syringe for anticorrosion with flexible nozzle:
- 💉 Insert the nozzle into the technological hole.
- 📦 Fill the cavity with lard until it begins to flow back.
- 🔄 Repeat for all holes in one cavity.
How to check the quality of application?
After processing, inspect the drainage holes - a small amount of fat should flow out of them. If there are no drips, then the cavity is not completely filled. Also check the uniformity of the layer: in open areas it should be glossy, without bald spots.
⚠️ Attention: Do not apply gun lard to hot surfaces (for example, immediately after a trip). When heated, it becomes too liquid and flows down, exposing the metal. Optimal processing temperature: +15…+25°C.
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
Even experienced car owners make mistakes when working with gun fat. Here are the most common ones and ways to prevent them:
| Error | Consequences | How to avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Application on rust | Corrosion progresses under a layer of lard | Thoroughly clean the metal to a bare state. |
| Too thick layer | The fat flows down and “bags” form | Apply 2-3 thin layers at 10 minute intervals |
| Ignoring drainage holes | Accumulation of moisture under lard | Blow holes with compressed air before processing |
| Use of incompatible compounds | Corrosion of paintwork or rubber | Check compatibility in a small area |
Another common problem is uneven distribution of fat in hidden cavities. This occurs due to the sprayer being angled incorrectly or the gun moving too quickly. To avoid this, use flexible nozzles with an adjustable spray angle and apply the composition cross movements (first along the cavity, then across).
Also, many people forget about electrical wiring protection. Grease can damage wire insulation, so wrap the wire harnesses before working on the arches or engine bay. foil tape or corrugated.
High-quality anti-corrosion treatment requires patience. Take your time - it’s better to spend an extra hour preparing than to redo the work a year later.
Car care after treatment
After applying gun lard, the car requires special attention in the first 2-3 weeks. Here are the key rules of care:
- 🚿 Don't wash your car with high pressure within 7 days - this can wash away the unhardened layer of fat.
- 🌡️ Avoid extreme temperatures (frost below –20°C or heat above +30°C) in the first 48 hours.
- 🔧 Check drainage holes once a month - if they become clogged, clean them
wire. - 🛠️ If streaks of grease appear on the paintwork, remove them lint-free cloth, soaked in White spirit.
If the bottom is treated, try to avoid off-road driving in the first two weeks - stones and sand can damage the uncured layer. Can be applied over lard for added protection anti-gravel film or liquid rubber (for example, Raptor).
The service life of cannon lard depends on operating conditions:
- 🏙️ City mode: 3–4 years;
- 🌳 Country trips: 2–3 years;
- 🏜️ Extreme conditions (salt, sand): 1–2 years.
⚠️ Attention: If after processing there is smell of petroleum products in the cabin, which means that lard got on the elements of the ventilation system. In this case it is necessary to dismantle air filter and clean the air ducts steam generator.
Alternatives to cannon lard: when it's not suitable
Despite its versatility, cannon lard is not always the best choice. In some cases, it is more advisable to use alternative formulations:
| Situation | Recommended composition | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Weld processing | Zinc spray (for example, Zinc Spray) | Creates electrochemical protection |
| Protecting plastic parts | Silicone grease (for example, WD-40 Specialist) | Doesn't corrode plastic |
| Quick treatment before winter | Movil in aerosol | No preparation required, dries quickly |
| Exhaust system protection | Heat resistant sealant (for example, Abro) | Withstands up to +600°C |
If you need to process aluminum parts (for example, suspension or radiator), gun fat is not suitable - it can cause electrochemical corrosion. In this case use specialized inhibitors for non-ferrous metals (for example, Ferosil).
For temporary protection (for example, for 1–2 seasons) can be used wax compositions (type Turtle Wax). They are easier to apply and do not require such careful preparation, but they last much less - only 6-12 months.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about cannon lard
Is it possible to apply gun lard to a galvanized body?
Yes, but with caution. The zinc coating itself protects against corrosion, but in areas of chips or scratches, gun fat will be useful. First, clean the damaged areas down to metal and degrease them. Do not apply lard to complete zinc layer - this may compromise its protective properties.
How to remove gun fat from hands and clothes?
Fresh stains are rubbed off White spirit, Solvent or gasoline "Galosha". For hand skin after treatment, use liquid soap with abrasive (for example, "Car wash") or GOI paste. Fat is removed from the fabric stain remover for oils (for example, Dr. Beckmann). Old stains will have to be removed acetone, but it may ruin the dye of the clothes.
How much lard is needed to completely treat a car?
Consumption depends on application method and machine size:
- 🚗 Passenger car: 1.5–2 kg (for the bottom and hidden cavities);
- 🚙 SUV/pickup: 2.5–3.5 kg;
- 🚐 Minibus: 3–5 kg.
When spraying, consumption increases by 20–30%. To save money use brush in open areas and syringe for hidden cavities.
Is it possible to paint over gun fat?
No, it's pointless. Gun lard is incompatible with most paints and primers - they will not adhere to oily surfaces. If you need to paint the treated part, first remove the grease completely. solvent (for example, Solvent 646), then clean the surface sandpaper P80–P120 and degrease.
How to store cannon fat?
Shelf life in original containers is up to 5 years. After opening the can:
- 🔒 Close the lid tightly to avoid moisture;
- 🌡️ Store at a temperature of +5...+25°C (do not allow freezing!);
- ☀️ Avoid direct sunlight - they accelerate the oxidation of oils.
If the lard has thickened, it can be diluted kerosene or oil for diesel engines (no more than 10% of volume).