I have a very old scythe the I believe my grandfather used in the 40's. the blade is heavily rusted/pitted and I would like to "restore" it a bit for my son-in-law's barn.

What does everyone recommend as a good rust remover? I can grind it off but with the pitting I fear too much of the old metal would be removed. If I could get a majority off without grinding I feel it will retain more of its originality.

Any thoughts?

Thanks

Gary

 

Edited November 17, 20178 yr by Ron Dudelston
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A wire wheel on a grinder will get a lot of it. Whatever is left only adds to its charm. I wouldn't go any further.

John

1:1 mix of ATF/acetone and a wire brush...

You might look into the electrolysis method.  Uses baking soda and a battery charger.  I cleaned up some tool boxes a couple years ago and it worked pretty slick.

Cal

Evapo rust works for me.

+1 for the electrolysis method

Wire brush  on an angle grinder.   Then oil the tool and peen the cutting edge to sharpen.

If it's got a socket to clean out EvapORust works so does Citric acid and  EDTA together  I get my citric acid from an ebay seller Duda Diesel & EDTA from any Chem supply. A little goes a LONG way.

Thanks for all the information guys...all great suggestions! Seems that the wire brush on the frill works the best here, very uneven surfaces due to pitting. Kinda looks good with the "rustic" finish!!

Thanks again,

Gary

Needle descaler...