Cleaning up old power tools

[dukes909]

Hey folks, I haven't been on here in quite a while. I have a Delta 33-990 (1996) radial arm saw I would like to clean up. Specifically the elevating column that has a fair amount of rust on it and other bits and bobs like the front track arm rod (both pictured below). I also have an old Craftsman drill press that the main column is in a similar state. Wire brush for these?

Additionally is there any way to brighten up the plastic casing of the motor housing or is this just what this stuff does after 30 years? I have seen some threads on old computer forums where these guys use peroxide on the computer cases that look like a similar type plastic?? Thoughts?

Cheers
Dukester

 

[PoorUB]

WD40 and scotch-brite, even on the plastic.

 

[David99]

This is the stuff they're using to restore old computers-

https://www.retr0bright.com/

 

[gba2331]

This is the stuff they're using to restore old computers-

That is really amazing, thanks!

 

[bonneyman]

I've seen videos on the tube of similar chemicals being used to whiten old athletic shoes plastic parts and restoring darkened coolant overflow tanks. Gotta be something there.

 

[barnonline]

Regarding retrobright, I don't think it is suitable.
It is for white/light colored plastic that have yellowed over time.

I your case i presume it because the yellow have faded over time. I could be either that the pigment have faded, or it could be that the plastic have become dull.
Most likely a combination.

Removing the top layer by polishing could do it.
Or you could spray it with some clear coat.
A thin layer of oil is in this context also a clearcoat... albeit not very robust.

 

[dukes909]

Regarding retrobright, I don't think it is suitable.
It is for white/light colored plastic that have yellowed over time.

I your case i presume it because the yellow have faded over time. I could be either that the pigment have faded, or it could be that the plastic have become dull.
Most likely a combination.

Removing the top layer by polishing could do it.
Or you could spray it with some clear coat.
A thin layer of oil is in this context also a clearcoat... albeit not very robust.

Ok thanks

 

[subroc]

Is this to be some full blown restoration or a basic lubrication servicing and simple cleaning of visible areas?

Looking for some perfect product to clean a couple plastic bobbles might be a fools errand. Get some wd-40, a piece of green scotch-brite or similar some simple green or similar and a plastic cleaner/conditioner, some rags or paper towels, some elbow grease and start cleaning. On an old machine clean up, you can do a lot in an hour.

 

[dukes909]

What is the best lubricant for the track and rollers?

 

[subroc]

What is the best lubricant for the track and rollers?

I would use the manual for service requirements, lubrication points and lubrication recommendations.

I would use common sense for the clean up.

 

[rust in the eye]

Be careful if using mechanical methods, scrubbing or sanding/polishing as the plastic as it may just as brittle as it is dis-colored.