Thread: _Must_ scales be removed for proper cleanup of handle and tang?

Hi all, newb question:

The sticky on "How-to" didn't mention any way of cleaning rust from the handle, jimps, and tang without removing the scales, and I'm hoping there's a procedure for arresting rust development in these areas without completely disassembling the razor. I inherited this piece from Dad, and would like to keep it as-is if possible. If I _have_ to take it apart I'll do that but if you have other suggestions that'd be great. The rust on the jimps and handle is fairly thick, while the section of the handle covered by the scales at the pivot pin looks more like "gunk". I've attached photos, any advice is appreciated.

I am not into restoring beyond a quality metal polish like Maas, Semichrome, Flitz or Wenol on a paper towel or maybe a toothbrush. Sometimes a bit of 0000 wool with Break Free as a lubricant is good for surface rust. In the pivot I have found unwaxed dental floss to work well. A bit of metal polish on it helps too. For general grunge cleaning within scales I use Scrubbing Bubbles pump spray. I also pound the end of a Q-tip flat and scrub inside with that.

Michael,

It is difficult to get onto the pivot pin hole to remove the rust from there without un-pinning

I have had the most success with in situ rust removal in the pivot area using penetrating oil (I used Kano Kroil).

Flood the pivot area, and 'excercise' by opening and closing razor; re-apply oil & repeat as many time as you need. Finally flush the pivot area with lighter fluid to remove the excess penetrating oil. You could then lube the pivot with mineral oil. Please take care to avoid excessive exposure of the scales to the solvents !

Have fun !

Best regards

Russ

Originally Posted by PhatMan

Michael,

It is difficult to get onto the pivot pin hole to remove the rust from there without un-pinning

I have had the most success with in situ rust removal in the pivot area using penetrating oil (I used Kano Kroil).

Flood the pivot area, and 'excercise' by opening and closing razor; re-apply oil & repeat as many time as you need. Finally flush the pivot area with lighter fluid to remove the excess penetrating oil. You could then lube the pivot with mineral oil. Please take care to avoid excessive exposure of the scales to the solvents !

Have fun !

Best regards

Russ

+1 on the kroil

Actually there are a few threads on Hand sanding and in those you will find even more tricks but to keep it simple...
1. A folded piece of Wet-r-Dry sandpaper in there does a pretty good job.
2. The flat style of dental floss with some metal polish on it does really well..
3. You can actually buy string style sandpaper, but I have always used the idea from #2

Take it very slow and easy, we have a saying in the Restore Chat
"Rush a restore, Wreck a Razor"

I'll get to work. Appreciate your help!

You may also apply packaging tape to the back of wet/dry sanding papers to give a bit of stiffness to the pieces. I make a full 2" strip of taped abrasive and cut it with a bargain store scissors to the shape and size I need. I also use carpet tape and make double sided sanding strips. Works on Popsicle / craft sticks too.
~Richard