Gents, When I get hold of something really rusty and want to see what's left of the original surface polish, I let it soak in a saturated solution of common household vinegar and salt. Pour all the salt that will dissolve into a gallon or two of vinegar. A little extra salt won't hurt. When you're sure the solution is saturated (no more salt will dissolve), pour off the liquid into a different container. A common 4 or 5 gallon plastic pail works well. Suspend the rusty stuff in that solution and check it every so often to monitor progress. Warmth speeds up the process, but the heavier the rust buildup, the longer it will take. Parts will appear ugly, slimy red and or black, as if nothing good is happening, but when ready will easily wipe clean to bare metal while flushing in fresh water. In most cases, spray rinsing will wash it all away. Wear rubber gloves or your hands will smell like metal pickles. (Not good). If rust remains, throw it back in the bucket for a while longer. Works on everything I've tried it on with great results. Never had it do any damage, but I don't leave it soak for days on end without checking on it. Dry and oil immediately to prevent further rusting. I've used it on darn near everything, logging chains, hammer heads, axes, cast iron frying pans, tools, including some highly finished, precision machinist tools, fasteners, even little bitty gun parts. Maybe not as fast, but somewhat cheaper than that laser. Hayface Any pitting that shows up, was there but filled with rust before you dunked it. Try it on some rusty junk first to get a feel for it. Most folks who try it run out of rusty stuff to soak within the first week. The solution can get really ugly and still work. I’ve been told there’s nothing toxic, so it’s safe to pour down the drain.
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