Cleaning Up Old Starrett Tools

[Shootymacshootface]

My awesome father in law gave to me these old Starrett tools. A 24" vernier caliper and a vernier height gage. Both are very dull with a few spots of surface rust and some sort of staining on them. I love patina as much as the next guy, but they are a bit difficult to read. What would be a good way to brighten them up without damaging them?

Thanks, John

 

[Sdmf5150]

I would say some denatured alcohol and then wipe them down which some wd40. I don't know if I would try scotch brite unless it was the grey fine
grade. Nice old Starretts you got there!

 

[markba633csi]

Try a little light oil like 3 in 1 and rub with a cloth

 

[Bobby Bailey]

On any built up rust, apply Kroil or something like and use a single edge razor blade to shave off the rust. If not built up rust, use Kroil and rub with 00 steel wool. Neither will remove the staining but, will make them more readable with out harm.

 

[Shootymacshootface]

Thanks for all of the suggestions. I'll go gently.

 

[MSBriggs]

For discoloration or light rust, I like Nevr-Dull. If the rust is a heavier, then a metal polish such as Simichrome. Then oil.