Here is the deal on the 1931-66-Singer
 

I have to go with Joe this time. I am 66 yrs. old and don't want to be thrown away when I am 81 yrs.old. I love messing with these old machines. I loved the discussion and am grateful for all of the advise but I still am not sure what to use on the rust. All of you people are just great. The information on this board is wonderful. Thank you all so much. Sandy

Sandy,

I've used several things for rust.

First, white vinegar. I got the best results by putting the vinegar and parts in an aluminum tray. Putting it in a plastic tray, well nothing happened. I think the steel/iron, vinegar and AL create some sort of reaction that removes the rust. I've actually watched the vinegar boil around the rusted parts when the reaction gets going.

Evapo-rust. Best thing I've found so far. Easy on the hands and environment according to the label and it does take rust off. My wife bought a quart somewhere after Jenny at Sew-Classic told me about it and I've been de-rusting bits and pieces since.

It also helps if you have a Dremel tool to use the little wire brushes to help the cleaners along.

That's what I do for small stuff. I haven't figured out how to remove the rust on the hand wheel of my #1 66 treadle yet.

Joe

Thanks Joe. Sandy

I may be out in left field when I add this because I haven't tried it on my machines yet, but was considering it on one. Has anyone used naval jelly for removing rust? I've used it on other iron products (mostly on the cars) with decent results, but not on my "house pets".

I have used SOS pads on the hand wheels. It takes off the rust, but if the metal is pitted, that will remain unsightly. I figured it was like a human wrinkle -- a mark of character.

Kay

Kay,

Thanks, for refreshing my memory. Yes, I have used Navel Jelly. It's caustic and has acid in it and with cats all over the place I didn't like to use it. It worked OK when I did use it though.

SOS pads for the hand wheel? After the rust was gone did you polish it with something?
I'll have to give that a try.

Joe