So if you want to save some frustration and keep this type of time to a minimum, you may want to think about your setup. I would recommend the following basic tools:
- Parts Cleaner
- Wire wheel
- Assorted emery cloth
- Assorted sand paper
- A soda or sand blaster
- Paint stripper
A parts cleaner. I have a 20 gallon one from Harbor freight ( less than 100 bucks). Its big enough to stick two brake calipers, or the accessory tray on an angle. I researched different types of fluid before settling on reduced odor mineral spirits. You can also go for some formulated green type degreaser or diesel. I really recommend low odor, it really is. However, at $14.50 per gallon Home Depot ( I think Wal Mart was $10/G), it cost you twice the cost of the parts washer to fill it up. I found that I need at least 15 gallons for the pump to work, due to the elevation of the suction point. I'm happy with mineral spirit. Low odor, no appreciable evaporation even though I frequently leave lid open. Not to harsh on skin and last but most important, quite effective. Elbow glowes, a plastic apron, safety glasses, a stiff bristle brush and a couple of different size wire brushes are good complementary tools. I chose a corner location for my parts cleaner, as it does tend to splash. I would also recommend semi gloss paint on the walls. It makes it easy to wipe up, even though my wall are white.
20G parts washer, note the brake caliper with hydraulic lines submerged and the empty containers of mineral spirits below. I save them for the clean out (drain fluid, grime remains on the bottom).
8" wire brush wheel. I have mine mounted in my drill. This is perfect for for removing surface rust and heavy grime and some paint. I recommend an american made wire wheel. I have used mine for a year and thought it has seen a lot of action, it is still in good condition. It works wonder for all those hydraulic fittings and lines. Safety glasses are a must to guard against any bristles, grime or the piece it self flying off.
My wire wheel setup. Great for all those hydraulic nuts. Assorted emery cloth from 120 -400 grit. I have both narrow and wide. Can be purchased inexpensively at harbor Freight.
Emery cloth narrow and wide 120-400 grit.
Paint remover. I used this to clean of the many painted small parts on a Citroen before plating them. Basically you need some big heavy duty plastic bags and a cheap paint brush to apply the goo with. First you apply goo liberally on parts, then place in plastic bags for overnight or several days storage. the purpose of the plastic bag is to control the evaporation and thus boost the effect o the paint remover. Without it , you would use a lot more effort and paint remover, and get a stinkier work space!
I do a lot of plating in yellow Cadmium Chromate, which is the original Citroen plating. Basically all my fasteners and small metal parts get plated. I 'm lucky enough to have a plater in town. For successful plating, you are supposed to sand blast and remove all paint as it works as a mask. However, I have discovered the thin paint Citroen used often comes of wholly or partially in the chemical cleaning process, prior to plating. Since I keep bringing batches to plating, I just bring unsuccessful stuff back for re-cleaning and re-plating. Plating is good foundation for painting and another barrier for corrosion. Besides, all the fasteners i throw oily and dirty into the bucket come back clean and shiny. What's not to like!
Each batch of up to 50 lbs cost about $90. Smaller parts bigger parts use different processes and thus count as separate batches.
The end result. With the help of a little alchemy, I can turn every part into Gold! You may recognize this e-brake assembly, ready to be mounted. you can't see it but, I used graphite grease for bearing surfaces, to prevent freezing or friction. Cast parts plate well too, though they can be a different lesser sheen.
