Restoring rusted/tarnished hardware...

Jack_

So, there's lots of home brew recipes online for removing surface rust like using vinegar or WD40 or aluminium foil.

Does anyone have a method they really stand by for restoring metal (chrome) hardware when replacing doesn't make sense?

Bridgehouse

Chrome is a beast to restore.

Aluminium foil can help, as can some polishes - but the very thin nature of the finish (which is often lacquered) means it just doesn't buff and restore like other natural metals.

For the hassle involved (including re-chroming) rusty chrome = new part in my book.

And that's not from guitars, that's from classic motorbike restoration... I've had parts re-chromed and the costs involved (specially with prep work) meant that a NOS part at many ££ was actually cheaper..

Deadman

Solvol autosol works brilliantly as long as they're not too far gone.

WezV

Replace with new and sell the "authenticly aged" stuff elsewhere

Misty

Deadman said:

Solvol autosol works brilliantly as long as they're not too far gone.

I've used this successfully on 20 year old chrome and 50 year old nickel guitar parts. Good stuff, but I'm guessing it's best not to use it too often.

fretfinder

Deadman said:

Solvol autosol works brilliantly as long as they're not too far gone.

It's brilliant for cleaning frets too!