Originally Posted by
MrsBoats
I have a cleaning question. In the picture you can clearly see there's some sort of edge in the finish, where something is worn away. What I can't decide is whether it's tar/nicotine (the faceplate was brown) and I should work on getting it off, or is it the finish and I should leave it alone? FWIW, the decals in the worn spots are paler (although not silvered out) than they are elsewhere, and I can feel them. All of which leads me to believe that's the finish and I should leave it be. All I did when I cleaned it was wiped it down a couple of times with sewing machine oil-I didn't want to do more until I figure out whether I should or not.
Any thoughts, suggestions, words of wisdom?
Do a lot of research before touching the finish. Here are some sites I found good but, use your discretion, in what to do. Of course test, test, test on a small inconspicuous spot first. Gentle does it. is the word of the day.
http://www.mckennalinn.com/cleaning-vintage-machines.html
heila-gaquin.suite101.com/restore-featherweight-221-finish-a66836
I would stay away from any sanding unless you have some metalworking or silversmith experience. There are products out there, that I have used, that have done a wonderful job in finish restoration.. I will add,
I am not an expert and constantly am on the lookout for useful information.. I read voraciously, anything I can, and ask a lot of questions.. David McCallum's site is also good for info... I also feel, that if the machine runs well that it is a big plus, and some of the marks or finish blemishes are what makes the 'history' of that machine.
Best Wishes..Hope this helps..Enjoy your FW!