Jay C posted:A word of caution. I don't usually get involved with these things but, if the model has any clear coat remaining it will need to be removed first. The clear coat will likely act like a barrier and the only areas that will be chemically cleaned will be the areas with no clear coat. There are commercial cleaners/brighteners (Brite Dip is one) that will do exactly what you want but, unless you know someone in the industry, it's almost impossible to obtain. Good reason for that...very hazardous to the untrained and poorly equipped.
Jay
mwb posted:Dilute Glacial acetic acid ~50%; immerse for 15-20 min. A soft brushing may be necessary to remove heavier tarnish.
Rinse 3-8 times with pure alcohol. Air dry and paint or clear coat.
Wear gloves and work in a good ventilated space
I think one of the most highly guarded secrets in the world is how brass model mfrs chemically clean their brass to a shine before clearcoating.
Even more highly guarded than the Dio-Sol formula which was outed a few years ago. 
A little googling shows that glacial acetic acid is available in small quantities; the first page had some for $26.95. Brite Dip seems to only be available in 55 gallon drums/carboy quantities.
