major rust on old cast iron

[Barman]

I just came into an old cast iron wood burning stove -- many years of living outdoors has given it a thick bumpy jacket of oxidation. I'd like to refurbish it and give it a new coat of black hot paint before transplanting it on to my patio. I have a Milwaukee grinder and a Rotex Festool sander. I'm thinking of some chemical to apply first - but what?. Any suggestions would be most appreciated. Thanks, Vince

 

[volaredon]

know anyone with a Sandblaster??? best bet

 

[wrench409]

Some guys in the car forums on Jalopy Journal swear by molasses.

 

[38Chevy454]

Sandblast recommendation here also. You could attack with a wire brush in a 4 inch grinder. Chemical cleaning really requires submersion for best results, doubt you have a large enough tank or money to fill it with an acid. Acid removes oxide.

 

[djjsr]

Check the yellow pages for 'sandblasting'. It will save you tons of work and frustration. A garage type sandblaster will do it but will take time. A commercial blaster will get it done thoroughly and quickly.

 

[Barman]

Many thanks, gents, for the tips.

 

[SeattleKent]

Electrolysis. Get it started. Let is sit for a few days. Done.

 

[bams50]

You could make an electrolytic tank. Works great, you just need a big enough tank:

http://antique-engines.com/electrol.asp

As mentioned, molasses works great too. As a bonus, it's non-toxic and smells great!

http://www.todayshomeowner.com/video/how-to-remove-rust-using-molasses/

And, beet juice works well too. Yeah, beets!

http://rustbeeter.com/

I've used them all, had good results with all. Just clean off any loose dirt and scale and go!

 

[oldtractors]

needle scaler.

 

[joebiodiesel]

My needle scaler works well on really rusty cast iron.

 

[brownbagg]

start a hot fire in it and burn the rust off

 

[coxodoina]

Some guys in the car forums on Jalopy Journal swear by molasses.

 

[SteveCh]

I did this once, on an old morning stove. Had a buddy with a sand blaster, worked well. Unless you live in a low humidity area, be prepared to put at least a light coat of the paint on very soon after the blasting. Like, don't wait overnight.

Or, you could forgo paint and use stove black, though it needs to be reapplied now and then. Some think it looks better than paint.

 

[Outlawmws]

1. Electrolysis
2. Molasses
3. Vinegar Bath

 

[darkk]

Sand blast it, quickest, easiest, cleanest....no work on your part.