bulk cleaning nuts and bolts

[chris-red]

Right the TDM is in the middle of an almighty clean/repair/Strip down. I have loads of bolts etc. that I want spruced up what is the best way to do this I was thinking ultra sonic cleaner any better ideas? The bolts have lots of both dirt and corrosion on them.
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Well, you know what they say. If you want to save the world, you have to push a few old ladies down the stairs.
Skudd:- Perhaps she just thinks you are a window licker and is being nice just in case she becomes another Jill Dando.
WANTED:- Fujinon (Fuji) M42 (Screw on) lenses, let me know if you have anything.

[MarkJ]

Vinegar will remove the rust, but leaves them looking quite dull

[DrDonnyBrago]

If they have rusted then they will rust again as soon as you clean them up. I'd leave them in a jar of paraffin for a while to loosen the muck so you can assess how bad they are (corrosion).

If they are badly corroded then I'd replace them with stainless (non structural) or zinc coated high tensile steel for structural bolts/nuts.

If you have an ultrasonioc cleaner already then use with some cheapest of the cheap cola in it to clean them, they will still corrode afterwards if they are rusty but it should remove it. Soaking in vinegar loosens off rust but again, but as with everything else it wont be protected by anything afterwards.

If you have loads to do and they are pricey to replace, you can get them zinc plated (as they were to begin with), no idea on costs/locality mind but it may be worth considering.

[chris-red]

None are rusty just slightly skanky dull with white spots etc. I've just bought an Ultra sonic cleaner so will give it a go.
____________________
Well, you know what they say. If you want to save the world, you have to push a few old ladies down the stairs.
Skudd:- Perhaps she just thinks you are a window licker and is being nice just in case she becomes another Jill Dando.
WANTED:- Fujinon (Fuji) M42 (Screw on) lenses, let me know if you have anything.