Cleaning parts

[Step]

I don't know if this belongs here or in luthier's corner so sorry if I made a mistake
I have the option of obtaining a rickenbacker copy for a few euro's, and I want it to become my first 'project'

now, all the chrome parts of the bass have rust or little black flecks on them, you can feel the black flecks when you touch the chrome, so it's most likely dirt or rust.
let's say that if I disassembled the bass, could I let all the chrome parts just float in alcohol or some other chemical so they would clean up? (just like you do with strings)
or if that's a big negative, what would be the best way to clean them?

also just as a P.S: the neck has a small dent in it 1mm deep I believe, what's the best way to remove it or fill it up?

[BillyRay]

I wouldn't worry about the neck, unless it was a crack since if you decide to fill this, you'll probably have to refinish or do with a "sticky" or "uneven" spot.

I don't know much about chrome hardware on a bass, but I had a lot of motorcycles. When the chrome is pitted, it usually will stay pited for good, especially if it was a cheap/thin plating. Replating was usually the only option for most mufflers, but that costs a pretty penny for nothing. Now hardware would probably be cheap/ run you the same price.

But if you want the (chrome) parts to look as new as possible, take them off the bass, wash them with a gentle soap and then polish them using a chrome buffing compound. Follow directions carefuly and wipe it ALL off or it'll get gunky in no time. For relisiant spots, I usually used very light steel wool, but that swirls the metal (hey, I only had beaters !), so it should be out for you.