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Tspringer · 28-07-2009, 19:00

So... how can I keep my tools from turning into rusty hunks of junk?

I would love to be able to buy all new tools, 316 stainless of course, but thats not going to happen. So how can I prevent those tools prone to rust from being ruined?

Terry

Kefaa · 28-07-2009, 19:28

Keep them dry - Keep them dry - Keep them dry. Tough on a boat.
This means wipe them off when you are done, even when tired. Then put them into a toolbox with a tight lid. I wipe them off with a rag that has a light spray of wd40.

I am not a fan of rust inhibitors, but you can try some. I have yet to find one that is without residue of some type after use. I am sure it is coming but until then, here are two other options:
Amazon.com: Zerust 11330 Anti-Rust And Corrosion Drawer Liner and Two Vapor Capsule Combo-Pack: Home Improvement

WD40 folks also make a product: 3-IN-ONE No-Rust Shield™ - 110146 - The Consumer Link

stevensc · 28-07-2009, 20:38

Try a quick spray and wipe down with an aerosol called Fluid Film it works quite well.
Others I have heard of mothballs or a couple of charcoal briquets in tool box.
As mentioned above if they get salt water on them rinse well then dry and keep dry.
I also like WD40 although many don't. I buy the refillable spray bottle and fill from gallon containers much cheaper that way.

Chief Engineer · 28-07-2009, 21:20

WD-40....Spray'em down.....do ya know the guy that invented it Just passed away?

**David M** · 28-07-2009, 22:00

Any sort of light oil keeps em shiny.

Starbuck · 28-07-2009, 23:22

Quote:

Chief Engineer wrote:
WD-40....Spray'em down.....do ya know the guy that invented it Just ~~passed~~ slipped away?

There: fixed it for you.

**knottybuoyz** · 29-07-2009, 05:02

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tspringer

So... how can I keep my tools from turning into rusty hunks of junk?

Camphor or moth balls in the tool box. Here's a long description of how it works.

http://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/...3&postcount=27

Learned this from my Grandpa who was a tool & die maker.

Sunspot Baby · 29-07-2009, 06:14

One reason I like WD40 as opposed to just any light oil is the WD part. Water displacement. Some tools have surfaces that just cannot be wiped (vise grips, crescent wrenches, etc.). A spray with WD40 will lift the moisture off the tool and protect.

Might try a vapor rust inhibiting paper as well. Used to ship a lot of aircraft parts protected with same. Moth balls are cheaper and function somewhat similarly.

Having said that, keeping tools absolutely rust free may be an impossible goal. Keeping them in good working order is doable.

George

Talbot · 29-07-2009, 09:06

another call for Camphor.

I dont like the feel of WD40 covered tools. Furthermore with WD40, if you miss a bit, it will rust. With camphor, it will cover all parts as it slowly decomposes.

hellosailor · 29-07-2009, 09:36

If you don't like the smell of moth balls, the rust-inhibiting chips are made by 3M and other vendors but generally hard to find--unless you go to a shooting supply or gunsmithing supply (i.e. MidwayUSA) where they are usually stocked, along with various rust-preventive sprays and socks.

The chips work really well. The mothballs are cheaper--but of course, breathing them can be harmful in any concentration.

Cheechako · 29-07-2009, 10:13

wow, moth balls! I learned something today! Other than that keep them clean and dry. I hate oily tools! You can learn a lot from an old T & D maker....

Maren · 29-07-2009, 12:55

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tspringer

So... how can I keep my tools from turning into rusty hunks of junk?

Oil of Clove is good and is used by some knife makers (others like oil of Magnolia). It also serves a number of physical ailments and thus meets the "double (or more) duty" rule.

If the tools aren't used much you can vacuum bag them or put dry tools in a Ziploc with desiccant packs)

I'm not keen on mothballs, Paradichlorobenzine is a neurotoxin.

Hope that helps.

Steve_C · 29-07-2009, 13:21

Titanium Non-Magnetic Tools
Imprex International

texwards · 29-07-2009, 13:36

Camphor and moth balls, or camphor moth balls? Either way, I need to try that. Although, I hate the smell of mothballs about as much as I hate oily tools...