removing rust

[lia*]

i have a very, very old antique hand cranked ice cream maker and it still works perfectly. however, the handle is very rusted. how can i clean it without damaging it? thanks

[KARL]

If it is badly rusted but not flaking, start by rubbing with steel wool. If general discolouring persists then spray with WD40 and leave a few says, then rub again with steel wool. To get a nice uniform appearance polish with Brasso type abraisive cleaner. If actually flaking (as opposed to dust-like red iron oxide coming onto the hand) then you may wish to start by using sandpaper or even scrape it first.

[lia*]

thanks everyone for helping.

cheers!

[KARL]

Sand/shot blasting will definitely remove the rust, but it may seriously affect an antique. Be very careful to ensure the technician understands that it must be handled with great care and precision - and that he/she is responsible for the result. If you are prepared to do the cleaning yourself you are in full control of the process. By the way, it is also possible to dip things in a special "pickling" bath (check electro-plating companies) and this is a less aggressive process than shotblasting - but again it may not be appropriate for an antique.