I recently purchased an Adlake switch lantern w/UPRR stamped on it. Probably a model 1112, w/ 4 1/2 inch lenses. It is coated with a dull, dark grey/black residue (probably petroleum products?) and minor rust at the seams. The only thing in my household that begins to remove this residue is Formula 409 and a LOT of elbow grease. Any suggestions on a better method of getting back down to the original black gloss finish? The finish is there and looks good after a lot of rubbing with 409.

thanks, dan

http://www.svry.com
svry@pacifier.com

A trip to your local hardware store or mega-store will reveal LOTS of products that can be of help. I would start with an environmentally-friendly light solvent, such as Citra-Solv (not an endorsement--I just use it to take adhesive off of metal and glass).

Of course, the last time I had to clean up a kero lantern, I used an oily rag from the railroad shop. <:-)

lner4472@bcpl.net

If it is built up tarry sludge, try oven cleaner and heat.

dave

I haven't tried this on a lantern, but on other items that are coated in the residues of burning petroleum related products, such as diesel or gasoline, Berryman's carbuerator cleaner works pretty good. It is available at NAPA stores and is strong stuff so you want to use gloves, eye protection, open air etc. It will eat paint off in a hurry, and will actually destroy aluminum or pot metal items if left over a long period of time (like a small engine carb. I put in to soak and left for a few monthes....oops).


jamesbane@hotmail.com

I have used store brand vinegar in a trash can to soak lanterns. Then hose down, blow dry and hit every part with WD40.
The Key, Lock and Lantern website has a left hand menu, click on "Restoration and Parts". On that page down at the bottom is "Lantern Restoration", good info from folks that have been there, done that. Luck to ya.

http://www.klnl.org
retsquid@tvec.net

> Any suggestions on a better method of
> getting back down to the original black
> gloss finish? The finish is there and looks
> good after a lot of rubbing with 409.

> thanks, dan

Since you seem to want to preserve the original finish try soaking a test spot in kerosene. This can be done by saturating a small piece of rag with kerosene and placing it against the segment in a horizontal position. This should soften any petroleum residues and seep into the seams and help prevent rust ... it might take awhile to work so don't rush it.

lamontdc@adelphia.net

> > Any suggestions on a better method of

> Since you seem to want to preserve the
> original finish try soaking a test spot in
> kerosene. This can be done by saturating a
> small piece of rag with kerosene and placing
> it against the segment in a horizontal
> position. This should soften any petroleum
> residues and seep into the seams and help
> prevent rust ... it might take awhile to
> work so don't rush it.
Nothing removes Petroleum like petroleum. The best is going to be stodard solvent.It has higher flash point then mineral spirts and penetrates better. It's what's used in parts cleaning tanks at auto shop and my Locomotive shop and will get the job done fairly quickly.


irss@eriecoast.com

Thanks to all for the suggestions.

dan


http://www.svry.com
svry@pacifier.com