Hand Tool Cleaning Tips?

[SMJ0104]

One of my snowplowing customers gave me his father's workshop - felt like I won the lottery! The man was a hoarder, of tools - 5k sq feet or so of old/new tools, gadgets, pipe, wood, electrical, you name it! I died and went to heaven when he met me outside with the keys and a big smile!

Anyway - there are a lot of tools that are rusted/corroded/dirty, etc. What recommendations do you folks have for cleaning them? I have been using a wire wheel on the bench grinder, toothbrushes, etc. It seems to work well, but figured you guys would have a lot more insight than what I have come up with on my own.

Any information is much appreciated! Thanks for your anticipated tips!

 

[kazlx]

Evaporust works really well. Buy a couple gallons and let the stuff soak. Then it can be cleaned up with some WD-40 and a scotchbrite pad or wire wheel for the stubborn stuff. That's what I used for a bunch of neglected tools I got similar to your purchase. Most have more character now, but able to make functional.

 

[jim1987]

Evaporust. But may leave some discoloration. CLR. Vinegar. Couple different options

 

[Jeep51]

Goto the grocery store and buy some Coke! Soak the hand tools in it for a couple of days. You will be amazed at the results. It works well on chrome too! Use a Scotch pad or #000 steel wool. Don't drink it when you are finished!

 

[uniballer]

Evaporust but when the liquid gets dark, so do the tools in it.

 

[SMJ0104]

thanks for the insight. so far, bar none, the Coke works the best. Incredible. thanks again guys.

 

[Richard Cranium]

how about some pics.

 

[jnyost]

http://buildandrebuild.blogspot.com/2013/12/because-rust-has-insomnia-diy-metal.html

 

[Steven67fr]

We need pics of the shop!!!!!!!

 

[97nismo]

Awesome from family dollar cuts through the grease and muck pretty good

 

[AndrewV]

Clr, and vinager are my go to's.

 

[W0rLDWaR4]

Vinegar, CLR, and evaporust...sometimes i use chrome polish on single sockets with light rust etc.

 

[cheechi]

serious question. can you get the store brand or does it have to be Coke (can't beat the real thing?)

 

[Sheriff Roscoe]

serious question. can you get the store brand or does it have to be Coke (can't beat the real thing?)

I prefer Pepsi over Coke myself