Evapo-Rust Super Safe Rust Remover

[Wheelin_Ypsi 0]

I have several different projects going right now, and each one has some rusty parts. (Wheel Horse wheel weights, Snapper rear engine mower, Choremaster saddle weight and implements, and a recently bought Original Cub Cadet w/ mower) Read severe attention deficite disorder.

Has anyone used this rust remover that Tractor Supply Company sells for $20 called Evapo-Rust

[Wheelin_Ypsi 0]

Sorry. I think I put this in wrong topic area. But each project engine has some rusty crankcase covers, etc.

thanks

Mike in Ypsi

[ducky 1]

Ive used the stuff. id suggest soaking for 24+ hrs after wire brushing. my opinion is the stuff works great. but it my opinion.

[Save Old Iron 1,571]

If you don't have a sandblaster,

spray on degreaser and remove as much oil / grease as possible

then

apply chemical paint stripper to get off as much old paint as possible - this step will keep usage of the EvapoRust to a minimum and the smoother surface will keep sanding (possible lead dust) and bodywork to a minimum.

then

apply evapo rust - or phosphoric acid - to remove / convert the rust.

when you're talking about the $$ involved in doing a whole tractor "chemically", you might want to consider taking the tractor parts to a professional sandblaster and have it done all at once - in a day or two - vs weeks of work by chemical cleaning.

The final cost may be about the same and you free up a significant amount of your personal time by using a professional sandblaster.

[rmaynard 16,341]

I have used it. It does work, but it is expensive. As mentioned in prior post, leave the item in for 24+ hours for best results. Contrary to the company's ad, brushing it on does not work very well. Also, the colder it is the slower it works.

The stuff is non-toxic, so I would avoid using acids or other toxic items if working around children or pets.

Evapo-Rust will remove and convert the rust only. It will leave good paint intact.

For my money however, I would build an e-tank. (see other threads on this site concerning electrolysis). For the cost of a box of washing soda, a five gallon bucket or other container, some re-bar or other scrap steel, some wire, and a few gallons of water, plus your battery charger, you can have a better method of rust removal. One box of washing soda for $5.00 will go a lot further than a $20 gallon of Evapo-Rust.

Bob

[Save Old Iron 1,571]

For my money however, I would build an e-tank.

Bob is right on the money with his reasoning here. I originally did not mention E tank due to your "neighborhood restrictions", but the barrel can be disguised as a water collection tank in the back yard.

I found E tank to be a great rust remover and a paint stripper. The stuff rolls off like butter !!

For the odd shaped pieces, find 50 gallon plastic barrels and if needed, soften the sides of the barrel with a propane torch to "squash" the barrel into an oblong shape. Items like fender pans and hoods can be done easily with a reshaped barrel.

I'm sure you can do it. If I can be of help, just let me know.

[300zx 7]

I haven't used Evapo-Rust, but I have had good experiences with e tank (plastic mortar tub from Lowes). For odd shapes, like mower decks, I am making a wood frame (2x6 frame), lining it with a water proof tarp (throwing the tarp over the frame) and filling it with water and washing soda. Just another suggestion for an inexpensive way to handle odd shapes and easily stored when not needed. I got this idea after realizing my family wouldn't want me using the above ground pool!!!

[Duff 206]

I got this idea after realizing my family wouldn't want me using the above ground pool!!!

Aah, geez....where's their sense of humor?

Duff :)

[300zx 7]

Duff, if I used the pool, I figured the 12 volt charge would only tingle a little bit and the washing soda along with the chlorine would keep everybody clean!!! Sounds logical to me.

[Wheelin_Ypsi 0]

Thanks everyone for your input.

I buy 3 gal pails from the local bakery, for washing parts in my garage. I'll try the e-tank, as I have all the other supplies. I have a large 55 gal drum for larger parts also.

Now if I can concentrate on finishing each of these projects before cold weather. No heat in garage.

[Save Old Iron 1,571]

I have a large 55 gal drum for larger parts also.

make sure the 55 gal drum is a PLASTIC drum - not metal. Metal drums will self destruct over time as they will act as a sacrificial anode.

[Wheelin_Ypsi 0]

Thanks. I found a 55 gal plastic drum free at a yard sale.