I would like to share some DIY information on degreasing, chrome and rubber maintenance. Please feel free to discuss and add to this information.
DEGREASING: There would be two kinds of solvents polar and non polar. Turpentine, kerosene and diesel can be used as organic solvents in the automotive context and acetone can be used as a polar solvent. Acetone is commonly available with chemists and also found in nail polish remover. Though petrol would also effectively remove grease, its corrosive properties contraindicate its use. A word on domestic degreasers. White vinegar and a paste of baking soda and water is sworn as the best domestic solution to the problem of grease removal.A 1 in 1 solution of auto transmission fluid and acetone or brake fluid and acetone is also a potent penetration fluid to remove rust.A solution of baking soda and baking soda is also touted as one of the best homemade degreasers available. Vinegar is also said to be a convenient rust removing solution. Use it for rusted nuts and bolts.
CHROME: A folded section of aluminium foil (the size of a small bar of soap) dipped in aereated cola (take your pick of brand) is one of the most effective ways to restore old chrome. It is said that the aluminium is sacrificed on interaction with the acid in the carbonated cola to restore the virgin chrome finish.
RUBBER PARTS: The prime enemies of rubber parts are time, air and sunlight. While little can be done about the age of a rubber part, protection from the other two can go a long way in ensuring longevity. Coating the parts with petroleum jelly is recommended. As is the use of 'silicon grease'. Please bear in mind that normal grease or diesel or petrol would harm rubber parts.
DEGREASING: There would be two kinds of solvents polar and non polar. Turpentine, kerosene and diesel can be used as organic solvents in the automotive context and acetone can be used as a polar solvent. Acetone is commonly available with chemists and also found in nail polish remover. Though petrol would also effectively remove grease, its corrosive properties contraindicate its use. A word on domestic degreasers. White vinegar and a paste of baking soda and water is sworn as the best domestic solution to the problem of grease removal.A 1 in 1 solution of auto transmission fluid and acetone or brake fluid and acetone is also a potent penetration fluid to remove rust.A solution of baking soda and baking soda is also touted as one of the best homemade degreasers available. Vinegar is also said to be a convenient rust removing solution. Use it for rusted nuts and bolts.
CHROME: A folded section of aluminium foil (the size of a small bar of soap) dipped in aereated cola (take your pick of brand) is one of the most effective ways to restore old chrome. It is said that the aluminium is sacrificed on interaction with the acid in the carbonated cola to restore the virgin chrome finish.
RUBBER PARTS: The prime enemies of rubber parts are time, air and sunlight. While little can be done about the age of a rubber part, protection from the other two can go a long way in ensuring longevity. Coating the parts with petroleum jelly is recommended. As is the use of 'silicon grease'. Please bear in mind that normal grease or diesel or petrol would harm rubber parts.