Cleaning oxidation on Hofner 500/1?

[jon-wb]

Hi... just bought a German-made early 80's Hofner. I'd like to restore it a bit but I'm not sure what type of metal the hardware has? Maybe nickel-plated? It seems to have the same dull appearance on the tail-plate, the pickups and the tuners.

Anyway, it's obviously oxidized and I'd like to get some recommendations on polishing it back to its original look. Any suggestions?

Thanks

 

[quickfix]

Nevr-Dull works on just about anything.

Also, get new strings that fit the bass.

 

[jon-wb]

+1 on the strings... already ordered. Thanks for the polish suggestion. I think I have some of that.

Some of these parts are fairly intricate and small. In addition to Nevr-Dull, is there any kind of liquid solution I can dip the parts into for thorough cleaning?

I think I read that Vinegar is usable but I'm worried that it might harm the finish.

 

[Pimpernel Smith]

You may not believe this, but, the oxidation is caused by the out-gassing of nitric acid coming out of the celluloid pick plate, control plate and the binding.
It combines with the nickel. The solution is to keep it in open air, not in the case, or with the case lid opened.

Nice Hofner, by the way, I had one like that in the 80's.The blade pickups are liked by many players, and they look great.

You Know about Pyramid Gold short scale flats for Hofner basses, right? They are the original strings designed for the Hofner bass, they fit perfectly,and give the authentic sound. They are fabulously smooth and last for years. That makes the high price cost effective. Try www.bassstringsonline.com. Some people use Thomatic Infeld Jazz flat wounds, which are also excellent. LaBella makes a set of flats specifically for Hofner basses, too. Jason at basstringsonline.com can advise you. But, please get rid of those strings shown on the bass, they don't fit it.

 

[Zooberwerx]

Nevr-Dull works on just about anything.

Also, get new strings that fit the bass.

I use to swipe the stuff from work...works like a charm.

The strings are fine...just shorten the neck.

Riis

 

[jon-wb]

You may not believe this, but, the oxidation is caused by the out-gassing of nitric acid coming out of the celluloid pick plate, control plate and the binding. It combines with the nickel. The solution is to keep it in open air, not in the case, or with the case lid opened.

Interesting... no I totally believe it. The seller said he bought it from its original owner in '96 but it wasn't his main bass. He estimated that he kept it closeted in its case for 16 years!

I was unaware of the Pyramids, thanks. I already ordered the light gauge La Bella flats (the McCartney set) because I read here that string tension was an issue for older Hofner's. I'm not sure that applies to this model but I'm playing it safe. I plan on being the 3rd AND last owner!

 

[jimi55lp]

Did you do anything to clean away the "oxidation"?