How do you remove rust from tools?

[#1]

I have been hanging onto my late father’s tools and decided to try to revive them. I soaked in rust converter, scrubbed with a wire brush, then polished with autosol. - 212422

I had a rusty old tool that my Dad gave to me so I thought I would give this a shot. I mixed one part molasses with nine parts water in a container, then soaked the rusty items in it for about 3 months. Then a wash and a little steelwool. Super. Almost as good as new.

- Super66

White vinegar was a popular choice for cleaning up rusty tools in a discussion from a while back. - Kermit

Try citric acid powder. Cheap and takes just hours. Non-toxic. - reproturn

I have found that Organic Virgin Coconut Oil works a treat! - klmm75

Rust Converter is a favourite, but keep in mind that it is an acid (as is vinegar), so use gloves (at least have water & bicarb nearby to dip fingers into) and most definitely some glasses. No good getting your tools clean if you are never going to see them. Spray with CRC or WD40 to stop them re-rusting in a hurry. I don't usually wipe it off with a rag, I just let any excess run off onto a rag, but it may depend on how & with what you will be storing the tools. For really gummed up tools (eg, gardening tools) I have used sandpaper on a multi-tool to get past the gunk, followed by WD40. - TedBear

I've used Bondall 250ml Ranex Rustbuster Rust Converter on tools in the past after removing the bulk of the rust with sandpaper, which has worked quite well. 

Rust converter being an acid opens up an interesting discussion point, the difference between removing rust from older steel tools versus newer chrome-plated tools.

I'm not sure if it is a subconscious decision, but I find myself much more likely to restore steel tools than anything coated. It might be because I know with enough effort, a steel tool can be returned to the original condition.

In contrast, a chrome-vanadium coated tool that has rusted indicates that the coating has been penetrated, and even when you clean it up, the coating is still compromised. This is where I believe it is a subconscious decision as a partially coated chrome-plated tool still has more protection than an un-coated steel tool. - MitchellMc

[Mario51]

Or scrape well with wire brush. Wipe with olive oil. Leave 15 minutes. Wipe well and redcoat. 

[alwayslearning]

One thing I learnt from one of my deceased uncles regarding tools, place a small block of natural camphor in each tray of you tool draws,or a block at the bottom of your tool box,it'll stop your expensive tools from rusting due to the camphor melting and releasing a nice coat all over the tools, and they'll smell nice aswell. 

[JacobZ]

Hi @alwayslearning,

Having our members pass down the knowledge they've been taught and come across through their experiences is one of the great things about our community.

Thank you for sharing that tip.

Jacob

[alwayslearning]

@JacobZ Thanks mate! It's a pleasure, especially when tools are past down through family, they usually have that sentimental part and protecting them from the elements is important. I haven't been active on the forum for a few years due too health reasons, but good to see so many projects on here! Glad to be back.

[JacobZ]

Hi @alwayslearning,

We are happy to have you back and sharing your experiences!

Jacob

[Oddjobs_Lucy]

I'm a bike mechanic and I use Evapo-Rust to restore parts and tools that need a little loving. Works and is safe on many different material types and is safe for the user as well. You can purchase it from tool and auto shops (shop around, prices vary). Soak times and amount needed varies depending on how rusty your tools etc are, but basically just pour the stuff into a tray or container and pop your tools in there so they are covered. Once soaked for a while, pull them out and rinse them with water - the rust will wash straight off and only occassionally will need some encouragement with a soft brush or your fingers. 

I love the stuff and highly recommend it - cleans things up very nicely and is cost effective. I purchased a 1L container of the stuff over 3 years ago and still have about 95% of it left. Because it is reusable it will last a long time and safe on you and your gear too.

[Jewels101]

Hi guys 

Any of the Red bulls, mother etc energy drinks soak over night and wallah brand new again...

[EricL]

Hello @Jewels101 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us.

Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience in regards to removing rust on tools.  

Were keen to hear more about all your projects and plans around the house and garden. Please feel free to reach out whenever you need assistance or would like to share a project with the community.  

Eric