Thread: Rust removal using White Vinegar and Bi Carbonate of Soda - what ratio?

Originally Posted by 86mud

Hi all

I have surface rust in a petrol tank that I need remove. I am going to try the white vinegar and bi carb of soda method, but I am not sure on the ratio.

I've googled, but unable to fine the answer. Any ideas?

It's a small metal fuel tank from a lawn mower engine (Villiers Mk25)

Assuming i mix the white vinegar and bi carb in a container then 3/4 fill the petrol tank with the mix then wait 24/48 hours slowly rotating the tank during this period.

Thanks heaps

In all honesty I wouldn’t use it. Bi carb neutralises the acetic acid in vinegar, which sort of leads to not very much!

Rust Removal Methods Explained - YouTube

This is very good at explaining, well worth a look (lots of other LR stuff on his channel too). Get some phosphoric acid, rather than be doing the job twice…

Cheers,
Dave

“If you insist”

How to Remove Rust: Nature's Rust Remover - FineWoodworking

This is the process.

The bi carb is used at the end to eliminate any acetic acid left over (not during the removal process).

Cheers,
Dave

I've used double strength vinegar to remove rust. I didn't think of bi carb to neutralise the vinegar.
I just washed it with hot water then dried it, followed by a quick spray/wipe with brake cleaner prior to priming and painting. So far it has been fine. (about 2yrs now)

I either use electrolysis or a 50 -50 mix of Water & Hydrocholric Acid . then rinse with a Soda solution , then water , then dry & paint or WD50.

Heres some headlight buckets from my Dodge Power Wagon , done with Hydrochloric acid. Beware HCL eats alloy parts which was handy as I could not remove that alloy base as one screw was galled. I then fiberglassed the inside to 'restore' them.

9.jpg 10.jpg 16.jpg

X 2 for the Hydrochloric acid. I use it on all my tanks and metal parts. I use a 20:1 ratio that takes a few days.

But don't use it on high carbon steels like cast iron or spring steel. It eats that ****e up.