Any solutions for removing rust & pits

[CUBuffs]

Does anyone have a solution for removing rust and the remaining pits from chrome? I tried using steel wool on my front forks which seems to remove the rust however the surface remains rough by the leftover pits.

[LoserShoes]

Sorry, but the only way to remove the pits is to replace the part, or have it rechromed.

Steve

[TopCatGr58]

Hey CUBuffs,

It has been recommended NOT to use Steel Wool on chrome or any other parts, as fine steel particles get lodged into the metal you are trying to clean and can facilitate further rusting in the near future!!

But alas, pits are the pits, you can minimize them by using a good quality chrome polish which can break down and remove the oxidized rust material, but the pits will remain. IF the pits are very bad, then you can take a good grinding material/power tool, ruff up the surface thoroughly, and PAINT over it!? For fenders, it adds a nice additional touch of color to the bike!
T.C.

[CUBuffs]

Thanks T.C.

Can you recommend a chrome polish?

[TopCatGr58]

Several good suggestions in this thread,

Just ignore the one from BuickYouth about the steel wool
Removing Rust from chrome
T.C.

[mro]

On my 80G I used rubbing compound to remove the bulk of the rust, then chrome polish. Works about 10 times faster, but hopefully you don't have too thin chrome, cause it does remove some.


mro

[GsBike]

Steel Wool on Chrome

I know that Steel wool if used to polish aluminum will cause a problem - since aluminum is a softer metal, but are you guys sure it will have the same effect on chrome? Any first hand knowledge?

[xs650mike]

If you must use steel wool, use 000 or better, more like 0000 or even finer. Lubricate it by soaking it liberally in kerosene, mineral spirits, WD 40 or MMO. Don't rub too hard, the rust is soft but the chrome is hard. If you rub too hard you'll dull the chrome or even have it peel from aroung the rust spots. Finish with Never Dull and wipe clean. Add a good coat of wax (I use boat wax) to slow further rusting. I've been able to remove rust pits and melted shoe sole from my pipes and clean up fenders this way, secret is not rubbing too hard. As has been previously mentioned the pits are there forever but they can't usually be seen from more than 10 feet away once the stains are off the chrome. Rub & Buff is worth trying on whats left in the pits, at least it'll lighten up the color. It's available at craft stores. If SWMBO is into crafts she probably knows about the stuff.