Cleaning Brass

I have a pre-1972 Sunfish that needs some cleaning. What is the best way to clean and polish the brass on the rudder assembly and other fittings on the boat?

Garrett

You can make brass look really spiffy just by using a wire wheel gently on the other side of your 6-inch bench grinder.

Expect to get dirty if you remove the wire wheel's shield, you'll reduce the number of little wires stuck into your shirt.

i'd go with a metal polish. your local auto parts store will have some.

or if you really want a super finish go with something a little more high end like this http://www.adamspolishes.com/p-602-adams-metal-polish-1-2-combo.aspx

here's a before and after using the adam's stuff (not my pics)

Today, an antiques dealer suggested a Brillo pad for cleaning brass. I can't vouch for it—yet.

I've always used brasso. It's pretty easy to come by, the last time I needed some I got it at the local food store.

lazerschool said:

I've always used brasso. It's pretty easy to come by, the last time I needed some I got it at the local food store.

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Thats what I ended up going with is Brasso. Things are coming along... very slowly. haha

Garrett12 said:

Thats what I ended up going with is Brasso. Things are coming along... very slowly. haha

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yeah, lots of elbow grease. I've found that it helps to wipe the brasso on kinda thick and let it sit for a little while before buffing it off. Good Luck!

Try some salt and vinger mixture. Maybe use the brillo pad with the mix soaked in it.

aaron said:

Try some salt and vinger mixture. Maybe use the brillo pad with the mix soaked in it.

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I just soaked my brass tiller parts in muriatic acid for about 20 seconds,hit them lightly with fine steel wool and rinsed!All clean and done!