In article
,
Limp Arbor wrote:

On Sep 4, 9:54*am, wrote:
I inherited some old mostly craftsman workshop equipment, all about 55 yrs
old and unused for the past 10-15. *I plan on starting cleaning them up this
long weekend and would like some input on the best methods. *besides blowing
out dust, etc, the main thing i have to do is remove rust:

work and fence surfaces have a fine covering of rust, no pitting. *appears
pretty minor but covers the entire area - whats the best polishing or rust
removal solution and method to use?
jointer blades feel sharp, but the rotor base and the blades are rusty. *is
there any real reason to clean them as long as they perform well?

standsnd casing is all metal, cast iron i assume. *there are areas of rust
on these surfaces as well, but not as widespread. *if i spot treat the rust
i will need to repaint - is there a prefered type and brand of paint best
suited for this?

a poster in a previous post about motors suggested looking for oil ports on
the motor shafts, i will be looking at these as well.

thanks in advance.

I've had good results with WD40 and a Scotch-Brite pad to remove rust
from cast iron. Wipes up easily when you are done but wear old
clothes because the slurry stains are impossible to get out.

I would clean the rust on all bare metal to keep things from getting
worse.

As far as the painted areas that need work I've heard rustoleum is the
best but have not tried anything else.

Have fun!

Most everyone seems to be mostly concerned with the cosmetics. If the
equipment is 50 plus old and has not been used in 10 to 15 I would check
out the motors and arbor bearings. Just because they may turn over
doesn't mean they are properly lubricated. I have seen oil turn to glue
and freeze moving parts. Ideally the bearings should be taken out,
cleaned, and re-lubed. Sealed bearings in an ideal world should be
replaced.

Chuck P.