Rust proofing steel spokes
 

I am restoring a mountain bike that has aluminum rims and steel (not stainless steel) spokes.
The spokes look fine, no evidence of rust yet. Maybe a dumb question but what would be a
good thing to do to the spokes to prevent rusting, maybe just rub them down with an oil soaked
rag ? I have some Boeshield T-9, how about that ?

There are numerous rust preventatives on the market in spray form, many of which are very robust, though I don't have a specific recommendation.

Since you are restoring it, presumably the bike is not new. If the spokes have not started to rust by now, do you really have a problem to solve? Having said that, a coat of paste wax may give some protection without the negative visual impact of having your spokes covered with, essentially, grease.
Also, if you used a magnet to check the spokes, be aware that some grades of stainless steel are somewhat magnetic, especially after having been worked into spokes. Many non-stainless spokes have been galvanized, which provides some protection against corrosion.

Automotive paste wax.

Always do the easy and cheap thing first.


-Tim-

Many anti-rust sprays solidify with time and exposure to air.

Stainless steel spokes are usually 304 or similar grade stainless which is not magnetic in its usual form. As you note, the cold working used to form the wire can restore a low level of magnetic attraction but this is quite weak and easily distinguished from standard grades of steel.

Non-stainless spokes are plated. Mine have never shown the least sign of rust; some are 20 years old. Even spokes on which the plating has started to come off haven't rusted. I live in the desert, thus may have a different experience from someone who lives in a wet climate. I also keep my bike inside.

The spokes don't show any rust yet. They are a dull gray color. Maybe they are galvanized like
mentioned. Thanks for the responses. I think I will just rub some auto wax on them and be done
with it. Over all the bike is in excellent shape. Been stored indoors it looks like.
thanks guys

Bob

The dull gray color could be oxidation. SS will eventually rust. It just takes a l-o-n-g time. Remember, they're stainLESS, not stainPROOF.
Jon

you could try corrosion inhibitor http://amzn.to/2xQrduY

frogman, Howdy;

Bob, quick suggestion, clean the spokes thoroughly with a mild rubbing compound that will restore the
shine to your spokes before applying the wax otherwise you will be sealing some of the bad stuff on the
spokes and giving it a closed banquet hall to thrive in. Paste wax is an excellent protection for the spokes,
just a time hog to apply. The wax will also help when you want to clean it off as not much will cling to the
wax.

hank

thanks Hank, I will do that.
Bob

Plating.