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Derusting a washboard

Posted: Sun Apr 22, 2018 3:10 pm
by papasmurf
Anyone here got any suggestion as to how to remove the rust from a washboard. (Looks like some kind of plated steel.)


Derusting a washboard

Posted: Mon Apr 23, 2018 12:41 am
by Leon Novello
Any hardware store sells rust remover which also kills rust, paint it on and wait the recommended time, then wash off. Wear gloves to clean up the resulting mess with a coarse steel wool. When dry , wipe over regularly with WD 40 or similar, then wipe with a clean cloth until the excess WD40s is removed and the board is perfectly dry. PS: Don`t forget to re-tune the board.

Derusting a washboard

Posted: Mon Apr 23, 2018 12:47 am
by Leon Novello
On second thoughts, if it IS plated steel, get to an electroplating firm to re-plate it, probably with corrosion -resistant chromium plating.

Derusting a washboard

Posted: Mon Apr 23, 2018 6:59 am
by Mark M
No, no! If you de-rust it you'll spoil the hipster patina and the mojo will never come back

REgards, Mark

Derusting a washboard

Posted: Mon Apr 23, 2018 7:49 am
by papasmurf
Mark M, I agree however, using some very fine wet and dry sandpaper in the worst bits, does not appear to be wrecking the patina.

It is my wife's she was given it as a present and she intends to play it. It is an antique.

Derusting a washboard

Posted: Mon Apr 23, 2018 8:04 am
by Mark M
What style of Blues will she sing? Delta or Chicago? And she'll need a proper Blues name!

REgards, Mark

Derusting a washboard

Posted: Mon Apr 23, 2018 8:25 am
by papasmurf
Mark M, it will be used for Skiffle. She also has a Bodhran, a Ukelele, a "train whistle" and various other bits and pieces.
She plays at local eclectic pub jam sessions.

Derusting a washboard

Posted: Mon Apr 23, 2018 11:18 am
by Dennis C
I was in a skiffle group many years ago, I used to play bass, a tea chest, broom handle and a length of stout string, happy daze.