rusty wheels

[Dan Hankins 80]

What's the best thing to use to clean heavily surface rusted wheels? I want to leave as much original paint as possible but try to clean the rust off some.

 

[DennisThornton 4,771]

Your question is simple enough but you're asking a lot.  Two approaches come to mind, both prolong but ultimately the rust will progress.  Polish/buff or soak in a acid solution, even as weak as vinegar or citric acid.  Keep an eye on them if you dip them and test a spot with a rag from time to time.  After the soak use some phosphoric acid (Metal Prep), dry completely and then wax heavily!  Even then the rust will progress, but more slowly, and they will look their best for as long as they can...

[Dan Hankins 80]

I want to clean them then probably clear over that. It's the cub cadet I bought from grandpa's estate sale, I want to clean things but leave it as original as possible. 

[DennisThornton 4,771]

6 minutes ago, Dan Hankins said:

I want to clean them then probably clear over that. It's the cub cadet I bought from grandpa's estate sale, I want to clean things but leave it as original as possible. 

I understand better, I think.  You would like to stop time.  Again, a simple request, but (chuckle!) with some complications!  Just don't count on the clear being anything special. 

[Dan Hankins 80]

8 minutes ago, DennisThornton said:

I understand better, I think.  You would like to stop time.  Again, a simple request, but (chuckle!) with some complications!  Just don't count on the clear being anything special. 

The tractor alone is special enough to me I'm not looking for a pretty restored look just trying to stop time like you mentioned. Also wonder I know some hit & miss engine guys use linseed oil might try that.

 

Edited November 3, 2016 by Dan Hankins

[classicdmax 190]

I've used a vinegar/salt solution before with great results....although I forget the proper ratio. Not sure it's affect on painted surfaces, but for me it removed some heavy rust build up and left behind clean metal

[Achto 29,247]

1 hour ago, Dan Hankins said:

Also wonder I know some hit & miss engine guys use linseed oil might try that

I met a gentleman who rubbed his tractor down with Marvels Mystery oil. This did not remove any rust but it did preserve what was there. I also liked the fact that the oil didn't rub off on to your hands if you touched it.

[953 nut 59,281]

   If you want to remove the rust and retain the existing paint you could use an "E Tank" and then clear the bare metal and preserved paint. it would entail a bit of disassembly and extra effort, but the look would be unique.

[DennisThornton 4,771]

Several here have used WD-40 and steel wool.  I prefer TC-11 and a Scotchbrite. http://www.tc-11.com/

 

I've used gallons of linseed oil (mostly on wood!) but it doesn't hold up all that well in the weather and it builds a film that either hardens or at least gets sticky.  Pretty sure you'd prefer TC-11.