rail dust
Senior User
Joined: Nov 2016
Posts: 220
Likes: 0
I have heard "rail dust" is what caused the little rust specs which are especially noticeable in white or light colored paint. They are literally just stuck in the clear coat and come right off with a clay bar. I had also heard that these specs can come from the metallic brake pads. I would lean toward the brake pad theory since I removed these multiple times from my old white truck and it was only on a rail car once in its life.
Mountain Pass
Joined: Nov 2016
Posts: 111
Likes: 0
I don't know much about rail dust or what it does to the paint on a brand new vehicle.
Personally I would not even think of using a clay bar on a new truck. Clay bars are effective at removing spots and residue from paint finishes that will not come off with conventional waxing/buffing. However, when used, the clay bar is mildly abrasive and generally requires buffing after the fact to get the glossy, smooth look we all desire.
If a thorough wash and at most, hand wax (not a high speed buffer) will not achieve the results you desire on a truck fresh from the factory, then I'd be talking with the GM about a replacement.
I've taken delivery of probably 12-14 brand new trucks over the years, some of which I'm sure spent time on a rail car. The one and only paint related issue I ever had was a piece of debris probably 2-3in long that got stuck between the clear and the paint on a dark green f250 I once had. It looked like a hair actually. Dealer's body shop fixed it without issue.
Personally I would not even think of using a clay bar on a new truck. Clay bars are effective at removing spots and residue from paint finishes that will not come off with conventional waxing/buffing. However, when used, the clay bar is mildly abrasive and generally requires buffing after the fact to get the glossy, smooth look we all desire.
If a thorough wash and at most, hand wax (not a high speed buffer) will not achieve the results you desire on a truck fresh from the factory, then I'd be talking with the GM about a replacement.
I've taken delivery of probably 12-14 brand new trucks over the years, some of which I'm sure spent time on a rail car. The one and only paint related issue I ever had was a piece of debris probably 2-3in long that got stuck between the clear and the paint on a dark green f250 I once had. It looked like a hair actually. Dealer's body shop fixed it without issue.
Posting Guru
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 2,216
Likes: 7
"Rail dust" is any metal particulate. This includes the metal particulate from brakes pads.
Your truck will see far more "rail dust" being driven on the roads.
Use a clay bar once in a while and it will be fine. Used properly a clay bar will never scratch your new paint.
Your truck will see far more "rail dust" being driven on the roads.
Use a clay bar once in a while and it will be fine. Used properly a clay bar will never scratch your new paint.
Freshman User
Joined: Oct 2016
Posts: 49
Likes: 0
From: Maryland
I have not personally used this stuff, but a buddy of mine has and he had good results. Might be worth a try if you find stubborn stains...
https://www.carpro-us.com/paint-deco...x-500ml-16-oz/
https://www.carpro-us.com/paint-deco...x-500ml-16-oz/
Postmaster
Joined: Jun 2014
Posts: 2,775
Likes: 7
From: Lewisberry, Penn
Many times you don't have an issue with rail dust, however, if there is a problem it is a warranty claimable issue and the reconditioning department will be paid by Ford to clay bar and buff the truck to showroom conditions. So if you have an issue, simply let Ford fix it for you prior to delivery.
Trending Topics
New User
Joined: Sep 2016
Posts: 23
Likes: 0
I took delivery on Friday. When I got home I waxed it and found black pieces stuck in my white paint. I just picked them off with my nail easily except for on I couldn't get off.
FTE Stories
Ford Trucks for Ford Truck Enthusiasts
3 Best / 3 Worst Parts of Modern Ford Ownership
Brett Foote
10 Amazing Upgrades That Solve Common Ford Truck Owner Headaches
Pouria Savadkouei
Every 2026 Ford Engine Explained
Brett Foote
10 Ugly Ford Trucks That We Still Kinda Love
Joe Kucinski
10 Things Every Truck Owner NEEDS (2026 Edition)
Michael S. Palmer
Rezvani's Latest Post-Apocalyptic Monster Is a Ford F-150 Raptor Underneath
Verdad Gallardo
Top 10 Most Expensive Ford Trucks Ever Sold on Bring a Trailer
Joe Kucinski
2027 Ford Super Duty Buyer's Guide (Every Model, Engine, & Package)
Brett Foote
Top 10 Ford Truck Tragedies
Joe Kucinski
Posting Guru
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 2,216
Likes: 7
Never any paint damage.
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post