Found this. What do you think?

https://garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=203018

Looks like a good one. I uses a teaspoon of OA i got from the pharmacy in my ultrasonic and it worked like a charm. I have enough to last me for years for de-resuting small parts. I de-rusted my entire supply of chainring bolts (probably more than 100) and happily found one Brev. Campagnolo one in there in good shape.. awesome.

I use diluted driveway rust stain remover, any hardware store will have it. I tried vinegar once and it worked okay but not as well as the rust remover and it can't be stored for long periods very well.

Looks good, I have used lemon juice with good results.

I've used straight vinegar once or twice and worked well on small parts and a chain. Might try a pinch of salt next time.

There was a mention of muriatic acid(pool acid) in that thread...tried it once, but must be diluted significantly, too strong. Worked fast, an old french freewheel looked new, while a chain had its plates become loose on the pins. It does attack chrome, the plating flaked off.

Any kind of acid works, sooner or later.

My only issue with that vinegar/salt thing is the mess it appears to make, the rust stain remover can be used over and over and over again and is easily stored. Plus it works like magic.

Before,


After,

Which exact rust remover did you use and how is it applied?

I don't recall the brand name. Ace hardware had it in a gallon rectangular jug and it was listed as a rust stain remover for concrete driveways and sidewalks.

I had a diluted solution mixed in a plastic tub and simply soaked the parts for a day or so.

Vinegar works. I use it for screws and other small stuff.

Adding salt is a major problem per the chemists in old tool land. Chloride ions from the salt burrow their way into the tiny pits caused by the rust and cause future rust.

I was skeptical until it hit me: of course this will work!

You ever seen fish and chips rust?

There ya go...

But seriously, I'd take the acid, leave the salt.
Muriatic is another term for Hydrochloric, it's strong stuff. I prefer Phosphoric, no sodium.

What was the dilution ratio? 50/50?
I have an ancient 5 speed to restore.

What's the problem with storing vinegar? I've got a jug of white vinegar that's been in the cabinet for years. I just cleaned the coffee maker with it and it seems normal.

OK - So its about one cup of salt to one gallon generic vinegar...

I'll have to keep this in mind...

Sorry, I'm not that scientific. I would guess about 50/50, maybe less. If you're unsure just mix it weak and you can always add acid.

I meant once it's been used, obviously you can store vinegar.

I was referring to the fact that with an acid bath you can leave the tub on your workbench (preferably covered) and use it over and over and over again for quite a long time and you can not do that with vinegar.


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+1 I have the luxury of space, so I keep a small acid bath going continuously. I have been reusing the same solution for six months now (its time to change it out). Here it is with three forks being treated.

As far as debating what works the best, hazards, disposal, where to buy it, whatever, forget it.