Replies

1. 
   mvflaim | Nov 28, 2006 09:28pm | #1

   I've used naval jelly on antique tools once and it turned the metal dull. Definitely won't work if you're going after the shiny look. Spraying the metal with wd-40 and sanding with 220 grit sandpaper works for me when I clean up old planes. I've used aluminum wheel polisher sold in auto supply stores to give the metal a good sheen. Worked well.

    

   Tell me and I'll forget, show me and I'll remember, but let me try and I will understand.
2. 
   JeffHeath | Nov 29, 2006 12:19am | #2

   rompus

   Getting the metal shiny is simply a matter of polishing the surface.  From a functional standpoint, it's unnecessary, but I too prefer to have my tools looking good.  You can accomplish this simply by buffing the metal surface from low grit to higher grit until you achieve the level of shiny that you wish for.  Get ready for some serious elbow grease, or use a buffing compound with an electric buffer.  I've got one for buffing out cars, and I was able to achieve a mirror finish on my cast iron surfaces with some compound.

   Jeff

3. 
   nikkiwood | Nov 29, 2006 03:08am | #3

   Believe it or not, you can do pretty well using a sander with a Scotch Brite pad (instead of sandpaper), with something like WD-40, Boeshield, or even paint thinner as a lubricant.

   ********************************************************
   "It is what we learn after we think we know it all, that counts."

   John Wooden 1910-

4. 
   PeteBradley | Nov 29, 2006 07:39am | #4

   I wouldn't try to make it look new, just clean and functional. Check out the FAQ at owwm.org for more on cleaning. If you really want everything "like new", google for imformation on removing rust by electrolysis.

   Pete

   
   

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   Edited 11/29/2006 12:28 pm ET by PeteBradley