Rust Removal

[rcranetx]

After searching for numerous tips on removing rust from leg tips, I wanted share a summary of the method I used. I hope you find it useful.

- I used 32" long 4" diameter PCV pipe ($8). Cap one end with a rubber cap ($5) and use a cheap ($0.50) plastic test cover for the other end. This is the side to open/close. The tube will stand nicely on the rubber end.
- I looked at Lightning but couldn't stomach the cost and shipping so I "settled" for a locally available product called Evaporust. You can find it at Harbor Freight and O'Reilly Auto parts here in Texas.
- Filled the tube with 3 liters of Evaporust. This covers over half of the leg so you can just flip the leg when ready.

I'm really impressed with Evaporust and would recommend it to everyone. I added a couple of pics for your reference.

 

[anubisdeath6]

Wow, what a difference, eh? I was wondering the best method myself for my pinballs. Thanks for sharing! btw, what pinball machine was it that you were restoring?

 

[tmcw]

Very impressive! I've been looking for something to sort the rusty spots in the pitting on the top of my front legs.

Just wondering:

How long did you leave them in the solution for?

Does the solution do anything to the surface of the leg to prevent them rusting again, or if not, what's the best way to keep them preserved or sealed?

 

[Kryzsky]

The before and after photos are incredible.

I didn't know that was possible, for some reason I assumed that the chrome on pinball legs is plated and pretty much ruined when rust sets in.

 

[rcranetx]

I leave in for 12-24 hours. The inside of the leg is generally the worse and the chrome is almost always gone. If the rust is too bad, the chrome could be gone already. Worth a try either way as bare metal still looks better than rust. Here is another picture of before after on the front. As you can see, these were moderately rusted legs.

Talon was polite enough to point out that Evaporust is a very good remover but not inhibitor. After removing, I give them a quick brush with WD40/fine steel wool to remove any remnants, chrome polish, and a couple coats of wax. I also sprayed them with a very light coat of crystal clear. I'm sure that step dulls the shine but, in my mind, will protect it for a very long time. I could be wrong though (often am

Without the great tips found on this forum and elsewhere, I wouldn't have been able to consolidate them for us to use.

 

[metahugh]

Nice!!!

I need to do this... I have like 6 sets of legs I refuse to throw away.

 

[Nerbflong]

Nice!!!

I need to do this... I have like 6 sets of legs I refuse to throw away.

Lol, same here. 2 sets only though.

What a neat way to clean the rust!