How do you clean rusty screws?

[RetroNinja]

I have an A2000 with a load of dirty, rusty, gunk covered screws. What is the best way to clean these?

In the past I've dropped dirty/rusty screws in a bowl of vinegar. That did an excellent job of cleaning them. You know you're done when the bubbles stop bubbling. Unfortunately that also eats the finish off the screws. They all have a gun metal appearance now.

What is your method to clean them? Please note, I'm too lazy to take a metal brush and try to get into every thread valley with a wire brush.

 

[sheepz]

Hi

I use a Glass fibre pen then finish with the white magic eraser sponges. Then some 3 in 1 oil to stop them rusting.

Regards

Barry

 

[miggymad]

No real 100% method for rust removal without affecting the finish.

Your best bet is to source replacements, modern day or NOS.

 

[Pinback]

if you put the screws in 20% acetic acid, the rust will be gone in 24 hours. this also works for larger rusty parts. never failed me. if you buy a higher concentrated acetic acid and you need to dilute it, remember the vapours a corrosive.

EDIT: yes, this it will eat existing finishes.