A good set of tools is essential if you want to enjoy working on your classic car. The tools you use on your car also get used on every day jobs around your home. Unless you have money to burn, it is important to keep your tools rust free and in great shape.
Garages can often have humidity issues which creates the perfect environment for rust. If you find a tool that is showing any signs of rust, here are a few techniques you can try to help remove the corrosion.
There are chemical solutions available for purchase, but they are often not eco-friendly and can be downright toxic. We think you should try one of these natural approaches for removing rust from tools.
The first involves using salt and lemon juice. Mix a generous amount of salt with lemon juice in a shallow pan. The salt will act as an abrasive against the rust and the acid in the lemon juice combats the rust. Use steel wool to rub the mixture onto the infected area of the tool. You may need to use a little elbow grease to remove the rust. If the rust is being stubborn, allow the mixture to soak on the surface of the tool for a few minutes before scrubbing.
The other method we use is soaking the tools in vinegar for a few hours. After they have had time to soak, remove the tool and scrub it with steel wool or a wire brush (a toothbrush can work too to get into small crevices). After you have successfully scrubbed off the rust, rinse the tools in a mixture of water and baking soda for a few minutes. Then rinse the tools in clean water.
If rust is still visible, you may need to repeat these methods. You may even choose to try both methods. Sandpaper can also be used to help remove thicker surface rust. No matter what method you choose, make sure your tools are thoroughly dry before putting them away. Wipe them dry with a clean rag and use a hair dryer if necessary to dry out the hard to reach places.
To keep the rust away we can use anti-corrosion lubricants like WD40. Coat your tools with a very fine layer to help prevent rust from attacking your tools. If you live in a humid area, you may want to consider purchasing a better anti-corrosion formula like Corrosion Block. This stuff works better than WD40. We have also heard of people using a small amount of brake fluid to coat their tools.
Keeping your tools clean is just as important as rust free. With tools, the old saying of “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” holds true. If you regularly clean your tools they will remain rust free and work for many years to come.
Keep a clean rag in your work area and simply give your tools a quick wipe down when you are done using them. A simple tool degreaser can help remove grease and grime that can build up. You can also use good old soap and water on most hand tools. Just make sure you dry them well and lubricate them to prevent any corrosion. Wood handles, like you find on a hammer, can be preserved and protected with a light coat of linseed oil.
Power tools take a little more care when cleaning. For starters, make sure the power source is disconnected when cleaning to avoid an accident. Power tools are more susceptible to dust. If you have an air compressor, use it to blow out as much dust as possible. Wipe down the surface of the tool and then lubricate any moving parts. Machine oil is usually a good choice, but check the manual that came with the tool to see if they have better recommendations.
Don’t forget to keep your tool chest clean as well along with any bags or belts you use to store tools. Wipe them down and clean them regularly. Having clean tools not only makes the job often easier, but they are safer to work with and make the job more enjoyable.