repairing finish/resurecting a elec bass

[slap-a-da-bass]

I came across a old 4 string a month or so ago, the brand is Bently, from the style I would say it was made in the 80's, and it's manufactured in Korea. Also really has a fantastic neck.

It's has been sitting for many years in basement out of a case, so the thing is filthly dirty, but not rusted. All the hardware is black chrome, and once I clean it up, it'll be a pretty cool looking bass.

Anyway,

I looking for how to clean the hardware? mild soap? I don't want to remove any of the black finish.

Also, the body has some scratches that are kind of deep, but not through the finish. Is there products out there that will help remove the scratches, polish, & protect?

Thanks,

[Pilgrim]

No chemical cleaners on the black! Likely to remove the black coating.

Damp (not wet) cloth probably as good as anything, with immediate drying. A soft, damp cloth changed often so you're not grinding dirt onto dirt is probably as good as anything.

When you get finished with the big parts, I used Virtuoso cleaner on the body of my Univox hollowbody to remove cigarette smoke residue - it's supposed to be safe for all finishes.