Progress pic of two found heads soaking in vinager

[upnorth]

These heads have been in the ground for decades, likely many decades. The corrosion is slowly coming off. I'm using a brass wire brush on them.

 

[El Quachito]

Looks nice. Rust is nobody's friend.

 

[300Six]

Never done this before. Old rusty heads have always stayed where they were found. Never figured they had any use or value. But I do have one that's been kicking around for 30 years (don't know why except that I found it on a rural fence post and the shape was intriguing) and did bring it home.
So all I have to do is soak it in vinegar?

 

[joejeweler]

I'd probably give them a going over with a 60 grit sander after using a steel scraper to get the looser rust off, before soaking in the vinegar. That way the vinegar is attacking a much thinner rust layer, and will be more effective in less time.

A light hammer will also remove a lot of rust,...."pre-vinegar".

 

[upnorth]

This vinegar soak is an experiment, and it is working, slowly. I used to do all my fur trade iron with electrolysis, then a thorough wash to remove any salts. Followed by 2-3 hours in a 200 degree oven for drying. Finally I applied a special wax used by museums. I see little need to do all that with these tools. For me this is a running newby experiment. I have never installed a shaft or ''haft'' before. So there is no rush here. This was kind of a winter project that got started early out of curiosity. I know for a fact that these heads are old, which I find attractive for multiple reasons, if newer I would likely toss them. At worst this will be a learning project for me. At best I will have preserved some old original heads and I will have the choice to use or not use them again. This is just kind of a fun side project for me. Yes Joe I tapped the heads a bit to break up some of the heavier corrosion, thanks for the tips though, I appreciate any advice. :thumbup: