Yesterday I picked up my Jet BD-920N metal lathe from a friend up in Seattle and got it home. Last night I sprayed it down with WD-40. I was able to get the carriage freed up and some of it cleaned. The main area of concern is the lathe bed. The Ways are diamond shaped and have some rust. The ways are hardened and I don't want to use any acidic based rust remover such as naval jelly, vinegar etc etc.

 I have read some reviews and forums discussing EVAP-O-RUST. It's non acidic and and in most cases won't harm the paint.

Have any of you guys used this product and what are your opinions?

I have also read the use of electrolysis but I don't have a large enough tank for that process.

My thought is to use the EVAP-O-RUST and a bronze or brass brush, Scotch Bright and followed up with 0000 steel wool.

Also what about Liquid Wrench? 

The painted surfaces are in great shape with no chips or scratches and only require a light cleaning. It's only the machined surfaces that require rust removal.

I think I got this lathe before too much rust damage has occurred. 

Your input will be greatly appreciated.

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www.thepatriotwoodworker.com Proud Supporter of Homes For Our Troops

Mike,

Try scraping the heavy rust with a single edge razor blade, that should remove the most of it.

Follow that up with Scotch-Brite pads and the WD-40. It will probably leave rust stains, but will leave you with a usable surface.

It doesn't appear from the photos to be badly pitted, just heavy surface rust.

 

Larry

Old Woodworking Machinery Forum Host

Thanks Larry! I got some straight blades and a blade holder, another can of WD-40 and scotch brite pads and have started the process. I did get a qt of evapo-rust and will soak some of the smaller parts and see how that works but I'm starting with a few bolts as test pieces. I'll let you know how it all works out. Thanks again.

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www.thepatriotwoodworker.com Proud Supporter of Homes For Our Troops

Well Larry I started using your method with the razor blade, scotch brite and WD-40 on the carriage. You can just barley see the carriage in the bottom but it was rusted as badly as the ways are and I was able to get 99.9% of the rust of with no visible pitting present. I ran my finger nail across the surface and felt no catches.

Thanks for the great info. You are the Master!

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www.thepatriotwoodworker.com Proud Supporter of Homes For Our Troops

Mike

you can finish it off with some 0000 steel wool. I use a paste wax on my table saw surface as well as other equipment and it works great as the last step. Also keeps the rust and stuff from coming back.

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Wayne Mahler
God bless and protect our troops that serve so we can be free.

Thanks Wayne. I use Bostik TOP COAT. I use it on my table saw and it seams to last longer than wax and isn't effected by some oils.

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www.thepatriotwoodworker.com Proud Supporter of Homes For Our Troops

After using the evapo-rust it may turn the pieces black. If so, hit them with a wire wheel mounted in a bench grinder. You can also use the evapo-rust on the ways by soaking a rag with it and letting it sit for a while. But, DO NOT let it dry.

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My job is to give my kids things to discuss with their therapist

Thanks for the heads up Ken. I think I'll only use it as a last resort. So far everything is coming clean with the wd40 scotch brite and razor blades.

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www.thepatriotwoodworker.com Proud Supporter of Homes For Our Troops