Rust

[permagrin]

I have an old Stingray bass that sat in a case on the Florida coastline for years and most all the metal parts rusted. I've cleaned off most parts with naval jelly, which has been very effective. The tuning machines are by far the most corroded pieces... can I simply bathe them in the naval jelly too? Should I take the mahines apart? Any pieces that shouldn't be immersed? Is there a better solution?

[bassteban]

Test a small portion of the back of the mounting plate maybe? I've used naval jelly and never had it hurt chrome or nickel plated stuff(bike parts usually), but I've always rinsed it off before it sits very long.

Edit: I guess I'd take the machines as far apart as possible, to facilitate a full inspection before & after.

[BillyIVbass]

I used a liquid Lime product before and brought a 60s amp chassis back to life. It wasn't like showroom new, but it when from solid rust to dull chrome. Basically I put all the hardware in a glass jar with the Lime and let it sit overnight.

I shook it around a bit then dumped it out and wiped it down with a paper towel. I also wore gloves. Never want to risk the health of your hands for cosmetics!

[king koeller]

A simple brass bristle (Don't use steel brush, it will scratch the chrome)brush will remove all rust, also use it with oil, like three & one,then remove to polish the chrome.

[permagrin]

This is proceeding quite nicely, thanks for all your suggestions. It's kinda neat taking apart stuff that probably hasn't been apart for 30-some years.

Question: am I going to get into any trouble if I remove the truss rod nut? Does it come off easily, go back on easily? Should I try to count the number of turns it takes to drop off so I can put it back to around the same place to make my setup easier? I've never fully removed one before, but it's got a good deal of corrosion. What if the end of the rod has some corrosion?

[john grey]

I (personally) would go easy on the Truss-Rod as the threads may be in poor condition and the seating of the Rod may also have some salt damage. The parts are often NICKEL plated and that's a bit tougher and more resilient than chrome. Chrome can peel. So make sure that the areas that have been exposed are lightly oiled to prevent further problems. You can tell the difference between nickel and chrome. Nickel begins to get "dull" as it wears. However even stainless steel can rust. You want to avoid exposed steel to further oxidation, especially in areas where you can no longer reach when the unit is assembled.

[96tbird]

Put penetrating oil on the nut and threads, wait a while and back it off. Count the turns if you like. Don't force it if it becomes jammed. More oil and let it dissolve the rust. Once its off clean the rod threads well. I would get a new nut so at least one set of threads is clean. Lubricate threads with vaseline when you put it back together.