When I have a new idea to share I'm always a little concerned that everybody already knows about it. But I found something really quick and effective for removing the green/tan/yellow oxidation from steel and brass. I'm not sure it's actually oxidation, but you know what I'm talking about. Don't use this on chrome or other plating. It will cause the plating to blister and peel.
How to accomplish this in under three minutes:
Muriatic acid (for cleaning swimming pools) is hydrochloric acid, probably 10% to 15%. It can seriously blind you or burn you if you can't get it rinsed off quickly. Yes, I use gloves and goggles to handle the big bottle, then latex or vinyl gloves with eye protection for the small work.
It's easiest to do on removable parts.. Brush on the full-strength acid and rinse it thoroughly with water. If the crud is particularly thick, you may have to spend one or two minutes brushing the acid, but usually you can rinse right away. Then dry and polish.
You can clean parts while they're still in place if you can block out the area adequately with absorbent rags. Here I use water in a spray bottle for rinsing.
If you want to try this technique you should know ahead of time exactly where and how you're going to rinse your eyes just in case your PPE (personal protective equipment) fails.
- Winky