Rusty Tools

[biffabear]

Hi a leaving allotment owner has given me some rusty tools whats the best way to clean them

[biffabear]

[tim]

There is probably a professional way but, so long as they are not antiques, I would use 0000 steel wool with a wax or oil lubricant. You are only removing the rust - not the finish on the tool.

Soaking first in EEZIT or similar might help?

[keef]

Wire brush off the loose bits of rust and wipe with a cloth soaked in oil - I use old engine oil, but keep in mind the health issues...

[cornykev]

WD40 works for me. ;D ;D

[mellor]

once you've cleaned them a good way to keep them clean and shiny is a bucket full of sharp sand/grit and engine oil. a few shoves in and out of the bucket at the end of the day and the spade comes up lovely and clean (obviously not if its covered in two inch of clay!)