C-1 Block Cleaning

[Jerry C.]

I am lucky enough to find an NOS 519 fitted block for my 59 and it has surface rust on the outside of the block. What chemical can I use to remove the surface rust. Was going to use muratic acid but thought I would ask as I am shure someone has done this before. Thanks in advance

[William C.]

Re: C-1 Block Cleaning

Most machine shops have block cleaners that will remove surface rust easily.

[Jack H.]

Re: C-1 Block Cleaning

But, you have to explain to the machine shop EXACTLY what your objective is (maintain the stamped numbers and do NOT disturb the underlying broach marks in the stamp pad surface) or it's REAL easy to get the block back nicely cleaned but 'contaminated' from physical handling...

For a do it yourself approach, a conventional rust removal chemical like Naval Gel (phosporic acid diluted and packaged as a heavy gel) along with a soft tooth brush typically gets the job done nicely.

[Rob A.]

Re: C-1 Block Cleaning

If you take it to someone to clean, definately ask them exactly what they are going to clean the block with. I took a block to get what they called "hot tanked" and assumed all the paint would be removed. When I picked up the block they explained they really don't hot tank blocks with caustic chemicals anymore, because of the laws here, in California. I then had to remove all the paint myself, which wasn't removed during their cleaning. Just a heads up...