Cogged drains, dirt & rust (more) (archive)

Tim,
Yes, there are drains, and it's very important to keep them open. The drains are the formed corners at the front & rear of the "box". Often these are obscured by crappy undercoating, or they can be just clogged with dirt. Find 'em and poke them out until they work.
Rear shock tower rust is caused by moisture stuck up inside that boxed section that supports the upper spring perch. Those round holes that are on the sides of the "box" can allow a lot of dirt to get in (when left open). The silt build-up inside the box holds water really well, and the result is the rust visible on the shock towers inside the trunk. That rust is where the "box" is spot welded to the inner wheel arch.
When I get a used BMW, I always take the time to clean out the silt using compressed air and bottle brushes to break it loose. With the corner drains open, I then flush it out with water and blow it dry. If I suspect corrosion may have started, I apply a phosphoric acid/zinc solution (i.e., OxySolv), rinse, dry, and spray paint inside.

i'm talking about the metal box area that is at the top of the wheel wells. the top of the springs sit up against it and there are two holes in it plugged with plastic plugs.
here's the question - should there be a 'drain hole' at the front of this box?
i'm doing some work in this area and want to get it fixed right so that, if it's supposed to drain - it drains. if its not supposed to have a hole anywhere in it - it is sealed tight.
thanks guys. your insights are appreciated.
tim
72tii

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