Sandblasting is the process of using high-pressure air to shoot abrasive particles at a surface.
This helps in removing rust, old paint, corrosion, and other contaminants, leaving behind a clean, bare surface. It’s widely used in automotive restoration—especially for truck frames and bodies—because it quickly strips away years of buildup that would otherwise take hours with manual tools.
There are a variety of different types of media that can be used for sandblasting a truck frame and body. The best type of media will depend on the condition of the frame as well as the desired results.
In this blog post, we will discuss the pros and cons of different types of media so that you can make an informed decision about which type is right for your project.
Stay tuned…
Best Sandblasting Media for Heavy Rust on Truck
There are a variety of different sandblasting media on the market, and the best one for your project will depend on the amount of rust you have, as well as the desired results.
| Media Type | Best For | Advantages | Disadvantages | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crushed Glass | Truck frames & bodies with heavy rust | Eco-friendly, aggressive on rust, leaves a smoother finish, affordable | Wears out quicker than harder media | Low |
| Garnet | Deep rust & paint removal | Very hard, cuts fast, minimal embedment, reusable | Slightly more expensive than glass | Medium |
| Steel Grit | Thick rust, scale, industrial frames | Extremely aggressive, reusable many times, cleans fast | Too harsh for thin panels—may warp sheet metal | Medium |
| Aluminum Oxide | Surface prep before coating/painting | Durable, sharp edges, reusable, leaves a good anchor profile for coatings | Can be too aggressive if not handled carefully | Medium–High |
| Silicon Carbide | Stubborn rust & heavy coatings | One of the hardest abrasives, cuts very quickly, long-lasting | Expensive, may be overkill for light jobs | High |
| Walnut Shells | Delicate surfaces (not heavy rust) | Gentle on metal, won’t warp panels, biodegradable | Not effective for deep rust or scale | Low |
| Soda (Baking Soda) | Paint & light surface rust on body panels | Gentle, won’t damage thin sheet metal, eco-friendly | Not strong enough for heavy rust, needs thorough cleanup afterward | Low–Medium |
1. Walnut Shells
Walnut shells are a popular media for sandblasting because they are tough enough to remove heavy rust but gentle enough to avoid damaging the underlying metal.
In addition, walnut shells are relatively inexpensive and easy to find. However, there are some drawbacks to using walnut shells for sandblasting.
One is that the shells can break down quickly, leaving a powdery residue that can be difficult to remove.
Another is that walnut shells are not as effective at removing paint as some other media, such as steel shot or silicon carbide.
As a result, walnut shells may not be the best choice for every sandblasting project.
2. Aluminum Oxide
Aluminum oxide is a harsh abrasive that can quickly remove even the most stubborn rust. However, it is also relatively expensive and can damage softer materials if used improperly.
As such, it is important to weigh the pros and cons of aluminum oxide before making a final decision.
3. Glass Beads
If you’re looking for an effective way to remove heavy rust from metal surfaces, you may be wondering if glass beads are the best sandblasting media.
While there is a variety of blasting media types that can be used for this purpose, glass beads have several advantages.
First, they are less likely to damage the underlying metal surface. Second, they generate less dust, making them ideal for use in enclosed spaces. Also, glass beads are reusable, which can save you money over time.
When used properly, glass beads can be an effective tool for removing heavy rust from metal surfaces.
4. Steel Shot
Steel shot is often used as a sandblasting media because it is able to remove heavy rust quickly and effectively. However, there are some drawbacks to using steel shots.
First, it is more expensive than other types of sandblasting media. Second, it can cause damage to the surface being sandblasted if not used properly. Moreover, steel shot is not always the best choice for every type of rust removal project.
For example, if the goal is simply to remove light rust, another type of sandblasting media may be a better choice.
Overall, a steel shot is a good option for heavy rust removal, but it is important to consider all factors before making a decision.
5. Silicon Carbide
Silicon carbide is a very hard and abrasive material, making it effective for removing even stubborn rust.
However, it is also more expensive than other options, and it can be dangerous to use if proper safety precautions are not taken.
For these reasons, silicon carbide is not always the best choice for every sandblasting project.
Ultimately, the best sandblasting media for removing the heavy rust on your truck will depend on the specific situation and needs of the user. No matter what type of sandblasting media you choose, always use caution and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid injury.
How to Choose the Right Sandblaster for Your Truck?
Restoring a truck frame isn’t just about elbow grease—it’s about choosing the right tool so you don’t waste hours struggling.
I’ve seen people try to “make do” with the wrong machine, only to end up frustrated. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you pick the sandblaster that actually fits your project:
1. Portable & Small Sandblasters – Great for Quick Fixes
If your truck frame just has light surface rust or you need to clean up smaller areas, a portable or small sandblaster is your friend.
They’re affordable, easy to set up, and perfect for spot work or hard-to-reach corners. Just keep in mind—they’re not built for the entire frame. I’d recommend these if you’re doing minor touch-ups or prepping small sections before paint.
2. Stationary Sandblasters – Reliable Middle Ground
For those of you who tinker in the garage more often, a stationary sandblaster gives you a nice balance. It’s stronger than a portable unit, steady to work with, and some even come with vacuums to keep your space cleaner.
This is what I’d suggest if you want something reliable for medium-to-heavy rust removal, but don’t want to commit to a full industrial setup.
3. Large Sandblasters – The Powerhouse for Full Restorations
Now, if your truck frame is really coated in thick rust or old layers of paint, go straight for a large sandblaster. These machines are beasts—they’ll save you hours of scraping and grinding, and leave your frame looking like bare new metal.
Yes, you’ll need proper safety gear and regular maintenance, but honestly, nothing comes close to the results. If you’re serious about restoring your truck frame the right way, this is the one I’d personally pick.
How Much Does it Cost to Sandblast an Old Truck Frame and Body?
The cost of sandblasting depends on the size of the job, the blasting media used, and your location. On average:
Truck Frame Only: Around $100–$200. If you choose premium media like silicon carbide, expect up to $300.
Truck Body (cab, bed, panels): A full body sandblasting usually ranges from $500–$1,500, depending on size, condition, and whether you want inside panels, floors, and corners blasted as well.
To get the most accurate number, it’s always best to get a quote from a local sandblasting professional—they’ll also give you a realistic time estimate.
How Long Does It Take?
- Small Truck Frame: 1–2 hours
- Large Truck Frame: 2–4 hours (longer if using harder media like silicon carbide)
- Truck Body: 6–10 hours on average, depending on rust, paint thickness, and how detailed the blasting needs to be
This is still far quicker (and more thorough) than scraping, grinding, or chemical stripping.
Budget-Friendly Alternatives
If you’re worried about cost, there are a couple of cheaper options—but keep in mind, none of them match the speed or effectiveness of sandblasting:
- Wire Brush & Grinder: Less expensive, but extremely time-consuming and nearly impossible to get into tight corners.
- Chemical Rust Removers: Can work for small areas, but messy, slower, and not as effective on deep rust.
Conclusion
If you’re truly serious about bringing your old truck back to life, sandblasting is one of the smartest steps you can take. It’s fast, effective, and gives you professional results that last.
Choosing the right blasting media is just as important as choosing the right machine. The wrong media can clog your nozzle—or worse, damage your truck’s metal. For example, steel shot can be too aggressive, while something like aluminum oxide may not be strong enough for heavy rust. Always match the media to the job to get the best results without unnecessary risks.
When it comes to cost, blasting just the frame is fairly affordable and will save you hours of labor. Blasting the entire body is a bigger investment, but the payoff is huge—you’ll have a clean, bare surface that’s ready for paint or a full restoration.