Rust removal

TKD_Master38 · December 20, 2004, 05:14:31 AM

Hey Gang,

I recently read something about rust removal on the internet, but since I have CRAFT syndrome really bad, I don't recall where. The basic idea was to use electrolysis by mixing a handful of Arm & Hammer laundry helper which is basically Borax powder to water in a non conductive container, then use your battery charger to hook up one lead to the part to be derusted and the other to a piece of steel to be sacrificed.

Obviously the parts cannot be totally submerged. I think that I would be leery of this in an inclosed area, just like charging a battery.

Anyone out there with any experience doing this?

Bruce Dorsi · December 20, 2004, 07:47:42 AM

I have not tried this yet, but I have these 3 sites bookmarked for future reference.

http://www.htpaa.org.au/article-electro.php

http://www.reynlow.com/ww/articles/rusty.htm

http://www.troycustomdetectors.com/shadowtips/electrolysis.html

Maybe they will help answer some of your questions.

MrMopar64 · December 20, 2004, 11:08:31 AM

Here is one more to check out.........
http://antique-engines.com/electrol.asp

MM64

GaryR · December 20, 2004, 02:56:55 PM

Somebody over at the HAMB did a tech on this during the past year. I don't remember who and can't search 'cause I only lurk over there. IIRC, there was an extensive discussion of the safety aspects of the process and additional links.

Gary

TKD_Master38 · December 20, 2004, 09:42:24 PM

Hey guys,

Thanks for the info. I read all of the sites and am printing them out for my shop library. Beats looking through a hundred sites on the Net. :-)

The process works well, I took off the rust from a large pipe wrench in under 2 hours.

No spectacular effects, no sparks flying, and you former demolitons types would be disappointed with no fireworks or loud noises. Not even a witches brew boiling cauldron effect.

What I like best was hooking it up and being able to walk away and do soemthing else while it was working.

Bruce

58 Yeoman · December 20, 2004, 10:12:57 PM

There's also been talk of using molasses and water.

http://www.antiqueautoranch.com/montana500/adrian/rust.html

Or, do a search on google: rust removal with molasses.

parklane · December 20, 2004, 10:50:22 PM

How large an object can you remove the rust from with this solution?? If you have a big enough container, can you put a fender in there? just wondering :? :?
John

MrMopar64 · December 20, 2004, 10:59:59 PM

Quote from: "parklane"How large an object can you remove the rust from with this solution?? If you have a big enough container, can you put a fender in there? just wondering :? :?
John

This guy here did a trailer frame in a big plywood box that he made and lined with plastic if I remember right
http://antique-engines.com/electrol.asp

Heres the direct link for the frame..........
http://antique-engines.com/trailer-electrolysis.htm
MM64