I don't know if it will save it, but I use Nevr-Dull wadding polish for my metal parts. It could be worth a try.
~G~

Grant,

That is one of the things I've tried. It helps if the surface isn't too badly crazed or pitted, but things like the posted hand wheel haven't responded too well to it.

Joe

Joe, that is what I thought too. I have never used the product that did this to the handwheel before so I couldn't say but I have had good results with it in the past so I thought that I'd mention it.
~G~

I've had decent results from Nevr-Dull on lightly plated surfaces once the rust has been removed. And on bare metal if the polish wasn't damaged. Otherwise, not too good.

Joe

Pam is going to be sending the wheel to me. I will know better once i have it in hand, but i suspect that the "cleaner" is a mild form of acid (or the like) resulting in a matte or etched finish. it should not be too hard to buff back up, but we wi;ll see.

Nancy anc Clare, I think it is great that you have and are teaching the young ones to sew. The boys will come back to it when a little older just like I did. They will realize that there is no stigma to men sewing. Centuries ago men did most of the sewing and tailoring, women did the fancy needle work ie lace making and embroidery. It was Irish men who knitted the origianal wool fishermen's sweaters. I am so grateful to my grandma for taking the time to teach me. BTW I still sew on her 66-1 treadle redeye. So go ahead and tell them about this old army officer who still make dresses for the wife. Made all my sons sweaters and sock growing up and he loved them. Happy sewing with the little people.:thumbup:
Skip

A man that can sew is a Renaissance Man in my opinion. Or at least a good start.
~G~

Steve,
I think you're right on the mild acid part. Once you get the hand wheel buffed up could or would you post some before and after pics with comments on what you used?

The one I had the best results with I unlocked the stop motion knob and turned the hand wheel with the machine motor while I used something, I honestly forget what, to polish the wheel. But I still need a better polishing media.

Joe

Of course. I'm glad to.

For items that just need the finish "buffed" I would recommend "Flitz" I learned about it when I was the assistant mgr at a Marie Callendars. They used it to polish the copper salad station. It is remarkably safe for humans (in theory)

also, I really suggest folks try the white paste type toothpaste. it is a ultra-mild abrasive and it is really safe to use. (Try it on an old penny or Jewelry, you'll be amazed.)

The polishing compounds that I currently use are made by Formax. NOT for regular home use. I wear a full respirator when using it and wash the parts throughout when done.

My armor students always get the "monkey doing a math problem" look when I use it. Folks just cant get over how fast it puts a shine on, even when you are watching it happen.

Thanks all for the help/suggestions/thoughts with the ugly gray wheel. Using high tech tools like a sander is way beyond my current use of an ipad and sewing machines! Any thing more advanced will definitely land me in more trouble than I would wish upon anyone.
Steve I will mail the wheel tomorrow but do not bother with it till after your holidays are over. There is no rush on my part. Thanks!