WoodWorkers Guild of America » Tools

1. 

   dc1236
   

   junior member
   Joined: Dec '10
   Posts: 7

   So I went out to my unheated garage the other week and found that some of my benchtop tools, particularly the bed on my jointer, the tabletop on my band saw, and the bed of my lathe had rusted over the winter. I have no idea how this could have happened. We have had the worst winter in many, many years this year in Montana. Could the cold, cold temperatures have cause the rusting? Does anyone know how I can remove the light layer of rust from the tools. I was thinking of starting with a fine steel wool to get the first layer off and then with a new piece continuing on with some sort of lubricant? Can anyone help me fix my tools?! Also, would covering the tools up over the winter have prevented this from happening? I'm soo mad, but really can only be mad at myself. Thanks for any help. Dustin

   # Posted 1 year ago
2. 

   George Vondriska
   

   preferred member
   Joined: Sep '08
   Posts: 150

   Dustin

   Unfortunately ambient humidity is enough to cause rust on tools. Moisture can come out of the concrete floor, and come off your car, if you're also parking in the garage.

   You can remove the rust a couple different ways. Use a light abrasive such as steel wool or a Scotch Brite pad along with a spritz of WD40 or JB80. Do a little "wet sanding" and the rust will come off pretty quickly.

   You can also use products that are more tool-specific, such as Empire Mfg's TopSaver. I've used this product numerous times with success (telling you I've had rust on my tools, too).

   Once the rust is gone you need to seal the surfaces so this doesn't happen again. You can use paste wax or, again, tool-specific products such as Empire's Table Top Lubricant. This will seal the surface so moisture can't get to it, and also make it much easier for your material to slide across the tool surface. You'll need to periodically reapply the sealer. Big thing, make sure you don't use any lube with silicone in it. The silicone can migrate into your material and prevent finish from sticking.

   I don't think you need to cover the tools, just seal them with the right product.

   You can see Empire's products at http://www.empiremfg.com

   G

   # Posted 1 year ago
3. 

   dc1236
   

   junior member
   Joined: Dec '10
   Posts: 7

   Thanks George! I really appreciate your help. I'll make sure to follow your advice. Keep up the GREAT work on your video's!
   THanks again, Dustin

   # Posted 1 year ago

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