Seam bubbling arises when oxidation occurs between seals at joined body panels. This process destroys the metallic body to the extent that it occurs. While it's occurring, the chemistry produces "out gassing" which causes stretched gasket and paint material, often observable as bubbles. One particularly nasty aspect of this process is that the first rust produced then absorbs moisture from available air because rust is mildly deliquescent. This makes the rusting process self sustaining. So the analogy to biological cancer is rather apt. Once it starts, it tends to go to completion unless heroic efforts are made. If we could prevent any more water from becoming available to the process, it would not continue. But once it's started, you already have a seal breach, so it is slowly dying. Casual stop-gap measures can slow, but never arrest continued development. John |
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