What to use to clean corrosion off metal?

[Jeff7181]

Wire brush type stuff is out of the question as this is a Starrett 1 inch micrometer, I was thinking more like a solution that would remove the corrosion without hurting paint or anything.

 

[GalvanizedYankee]

If its in a wicked state of decomposition. Replace it.
If light surface rust, WD-40 + fine steel wool. Store in a clean cloth dampened w/wd40.
A Q-tip application of muriatic acid to oil free bad spots can clear them up.
Neutralize the acid w/h2o then lightly oil the area.

 

[Howard]

A micrometer? Is the corrosion anywhere important?

 

[Jeff7181]

No, it's not anywhere important, I just want to make it look pretty again to sell it =) I bought it used when I built an engine and now I don't need it... partly cause I have a better one that measures to .0001

 

[JC]

Naval Jelly.

 

[Nocturnal]

Try Dr. Pepper.

 

[OrganizedChaos]

what were you using a micrometer on that its coroded? digital or analog? if it was somehing acidic you got on it use baking soda and water.

 

[Jeff7181]

Originally posted by: OrganizedChaos
what were you using a micrometer on that its coroded? digital or analog? if it was somehing acidic you got on it use baking soda and water.

It was that way when I got it... it's just the name plate that's corroded, all the important parts are stainless steel... but I'd like to clean it up and make it look nice for the picture I put on eBay.

 

Naval Jelly.

Haven't heard that term in forever.

 

[Jeff7181]

Originally posted by: JC
Naval Jelly.

I think I just cleaned some of that out this morning during my shower... is that seriously a product?

 

[Apathetic]

Originally posted by: Nocturnal
Try Dr. Pepper.

I'll second that (well, acutally I was going to say Coke - but they'll both work the same).

Just place the thing in a pan with some cola for a week or so and all the rust will be gone.

Dave

 

[RossGr]

Read this thread in HT for some ideas.