Cleaning bronze prop

[BobHorn]

Spare prop in a deck locker. Probably been there since the seventies when the boat crossed the Atlantic. Heavy coat of blue tarnish. Brasso totally ineffective. Toilet bowl cleaner has had the most effect so far, but really slow going.
Any suggestions?
Thanks,
Bob

[tkeithlu]

Bronze or brass cup brush on a grinder. Don't use a steel brush, because it will leave litle bits of steel imbedded in the bronze. If you want to paint it, lightly sand it after the brushing, because wire brushes leave a very smooth surface.

https://www.amazon.com/Weiler-13231-...%2C187&sr=8-18

[BobHorn]

Thanks, I'll give that a try.

[Pete7]

Originally Posted by tkeithlu

Bronze or brass cup brush on a grinder. Don't use a steel brush, because it will leave litle bits of steel imbedded in the bronze. If you want to paint it, lightly sand it after the brushing, because wire brushes leave a very smooth surface.

Same here but I use a steel one. Vicious item, wear gloves and face mask, but 2 minutes with the grinder and it leaves a smooth dull finish which is good for painting.

Pete

[pcmm]

use a scotchbright type flap disc on a grinder. Effective and gentler on the prop. Won't throw wire bits at you either.

[Flatswing]

3m rolodiscs (red) are perfect for any light grinding. I use the 2” version - least tiring on a cordless die grinder but I also use chucked into a cordless drill. Will be great on your prop & very fast. They are the quickest solution for cleaning battery lugs, and any corroded metal surface. Cleaning gaskets of engine parts etc. Also great for frp repair prep in tight awkward spaces.