MTFCA Forum

I posted a request under 'OT' looking for feedback and advice on the laser rust removal machines as seen on Youtube:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=078v2jLQTt0
corrected link)


As it relates to fixing my Model T and as the OT forum does not seem to get the same traffic as this main forum, I am repeating my request again 'On Topic" as I would say it really is 'on tropic'

So, do you have any experience with this? If so what was your outcomes like?
Are there problems or limitations cleaning say old brass carbs?

Any feed back appreciated.

Thanks, Adrian

You might want to fix that link Adrian...

FWIW I used an ultrasonic bath to clean carbs. The solution(s) you can use seem to be the subject of endless debate but white vinegar and/or a little caustic seems quite effective.

If it's just rust you want to remove then electrolysis is always a good staple.

Ooops, thanks for that Luke, I put a new link in.

This method uses no solutions and appears to clean rust from metal very easily. It seems to clean up alloy as well with little no surface deformation which is why it caught my attention. It seems wood can be cleaned and even paintings..

It seems to be an effective paint stripper without using any chemicals.

Adrian

That laser rust removal device was featured on one of Jay Leno's Garage TV show a few years ago. While impressive, even Jay comments on the cost, that the home restorer won't be able to afford.

This is from one of the sites that commented on the laser removal machines.

These state-of-the-art contraptions ain’t sitting on Machine Mart’s shelves for £50. The cheapest version on the market is a much smaller, less-powerful 20W unit that starts at $80,000 (£62,000). That 1000W specimen from the video would set you back an eye-watering $480,000 (£370,000). So it’s fair to say that laser rust removal is probably out of the reach of most petrolheads trying to restore their project car for next month’s car meet.

It's always fun to see new things. What is this world coming to?
I'm going to stick to a bucket of water and some 80 grit wet-or-dry sand paper. And a good radio.
Thanks
Rich

Rich Eagle wrote: ↑

Mon Apr 05, 2021 5:08 pm

I'm going to stick to a bucket of water and some 80 grit wet-or-dry sand paper.
Thanks
Rich

Rich

Hand sanding to get rust off? Even Henry put electric on his T

Just got a new grinder and disc to finish the rust removal, the ole Craftsman grinder finally conked out after 30 years

Well, I would love to say I can afford those things!
(I wish)
Actually the prices of a new unit are way lower than that, especially from China.

There is a local chap providing laser cleaning services, so rather than buy my own I am going to see what he charges per item and see what the end result looks like.

I am keen on the idea of a 'non harsh chemical' method that does not damage the surface.


Cheers
Adrian

How do you use an ultrasonic bath to clean a carb? You just drop the jets and float in?

Lasers we don’t need no stinking lasers.

Its_Always_T_Time wrote: ↑

Mon Apr 05, 2021 9:57 pm

How do you use an ultrasonic bath to clean a carb? You just drop the jets and float in?

Brendan,

Yes, and/or the complete carb body - usually separated where possible.

I’m keen to hear how it goes Adrian. Please give us an update if you go ahead with getting something cleaned up. Seems to me there are a lot of potential upsides - not sure what the cons are? Plenty of pros come to mind.