bob2 posted:Low pressure bead blast. Never around gears or motors. Blow all grit off, then coat with a good grade of primer asap. Let that dry, then spray the finish color.
After that, a light coat of oil won't hurt anything, but all you need is oil on the journals and bearings.
SODA blast. Blast with baking soda. It will remove rust, dust, dirt, and grime. And not touch the finish.
That being said, I haven't personally tried it yet. But I know a guy who does this with old motorcycles. He blasts the rust and crust off of the chrome rims, spokes, and anywhere else that needs blasting, and makes these bikes look virtually showroom fresh. Seen 'em both in person and in photos of bikes he no longer has. Harbor Freight Tools has soda blasting equipment and supplies, amongst others.
