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So I removed my wheels today and took them to a motorcycle shop for a new set of tires. While everything is exposed and I'm stuck without a rideable bike, I thought I would give it a good cleaning and try to pretty up some of the rust spots on my frame. The bike is a 1991 Nighthawk, and even though it has been sitting outside for years the rust is minor and just cosmetic. For the painted frame parts I plan to use an emory wheel drill bit to get the rust off and then repaint the frame. For the flat metal bits I want to use scour pads and soapy water. Anything I should be wary of?

Also, the ends of the pipes have a little rust in them, how can I clean them up without scuffing the shine? Should I use WD-40 or some other product for cleaning/preventing further rust? Any general comments on bike restoration/cleanup?

Thanks!


~LJ

Don't add water to rust.

At work we use a chemical called ospho to take surface rust off of paint. I dont really know where to find it but it works great and doesnt damage our paint.

EDIT: Here i just found the website: http://www.ospho.com Unfortunately it looks like you have to buy it a case at a time for $120.00

OK, so nix the soapy water. Any other insight into this matter? I'm about to go start working the rear frame and would love more input from you guys.



~LJ

I used WD-40 and a light scrubbing with a brillo disposable pad to get rid of frame rust. After I would wipe it with a moist towel (not dripping wet) and pat it dry with another rag. Once I'm done I just spray some Krylon paint to prevent anymore rusting on that spot.

If you plan on using Krylon paint try to get an air brush for more control and also let it sit for 2 hours before putting stuff together (I put the seat back on in 30 min. and ended up having the paint rub off)

On the rims of my 78 Hons CB750K I used Ultra Ultra fine steel wool to get the rust off the rims. On the painted parts it scratched the paint. But on that clunker who cared if the paint was bad looking.

I second the steel wool and WD40 technique. It might take a little elbow grease but you'll get nice results. I wouldnt worry too much about water. Just get a rag and wipe the excess oil if you want and call it good.

Actually I started using these to prevent me from having more spots to paint: http://www.brillo.com/products/scrubntoss.asp

Scratchless but takes a bit more work to scrub out rust but not much more.