I have purchased a number of fine brass engines over the internet. Unfortunately my last purchase came not quite as advertised and has some corrosion on several parts. The foam had deteriorated to the point where a fine powder has found its way all over the engine and tender. It is also sticky…
I would appreciate some suggestions as to how to clean this up… Dusting with a paint brush certainly didn’t help…
Thanks,
Roger
Roger–remove the boiler and cab from the frame and use a soft toothbrush, warm water and about 3 or 4 drops of liquid dishwashing detergent. That should take care of the fine powder. I’ve had a couple of my brass locos arrive that way too, and a good washing usually cures it up. You might have to wash several times to get everything. Rinse the loco off and pat it dry with a towel. Works for me.
Do you plan on painting the locos? If so, you might dilute a little white vinegar and use the toothbrush again. About 1/3 vinegar to 2/3 warm water. Gently scrub and rinse, then pat dry with a towel. That will give a very fine ‘etch’ to the brass and the paint will adhere much better.
Tom
Roger, if you are planning on painting and the corrosion is heavy—like tarnish—I’ve had great results using a product called “Copper Glow”. It’s a kitchen cleanser for cleaning copper-clad pots and pans. It does a whiz-bang job of removing tarnish and corrosion, but of course the brass needs to be clear-coated or primed for painting once the brass is cleaned up. Good luck!
Mick
Tom and Mick:
Thanks for your help I will try both solutions…
Best regards,
Roger