Topic: Removing rust from exhaust flanges.

[manjisann]

I tried searching posts and checked the FAQ but I couldn't find anything on it, so if there is a page out there, please let me know.

I am painting the headers on my CB500 with VHT header paint and want to paint the finned exhaust flanges black as well. I am just wondering what the easiest, best way to remove all the rust is so I can do this. Does CLR, or any of the chemical rust removers do a good job? I tried doing it with an 8" wire wheel on my bench grinder, but the grinder didn't enjoy that so much  I am looking for something that will work within a few minutes or a few hours and that I don't need a hasmat lisence to have.

Thanks,

Brandon

[BlindJoe]

The wire wheel has always worked fine for me, what was your issue with it specifically? Your best option though would be to have them sandblasted.

[manjisann]

hmmm, maybe I just need to try harder. It wasn't going in between the fins real well and would bog down. It is a 3hp unit, so it should be plenty strong I would think.

Brandon

[BlindJoe]

You could try using a softer wheel such as brass. If your wheel is steel and relatively unused, I could see the potential for the problem you are having.

[super pasty white guy]

Or you could remove the rust chemically using electrolysis (search for posts on this if interested).  Probably an overkill option, but does make it easy to get into the small areas.

spwg

[tbpmusic]

Don't use CLR - too "hot" for safety.

Go to Farm and Fleet or Tractor Supply, get some Milk Stone Remover.
Mix it down by half, soak any part for as long as it takes (probably a couple of hours).

Relatively safe, easy to do.
Hellacious on rust, won't touch chrome.
Rinse with water, dry, then rinse with acetone, and paint.

bill2

[manjisann]

Well, I went to the hardware store and stumbled on brass wire wheels for a drill. It was about a 4" diameter and narrower that the one on my grinder. Fortunately my drill press goes up to 3100 rpms so it worked pretty well.

I will have to keep the Milk Stone Remover in mind though, could be great for removing rust in those crevises and hard to reach places that you can't get anything into.

Thanks everyone!

Brandon