How to Remove Rust From a Stainless Steel Propeller
Many boat owners spend the extra money for a stainless steel prop for their boats, wanting the highest quality, longest lasting finish available. Some are surprised and disappointed to find that these propellers can still develop rust on occasion. While stainless steel is corrosion resistant to a degree due to the chromium and nickel alloy steel it is made from, it is not rustproof. A variety of conditions in the water and the way that the propeller is stored can cause rust to develop. Fortunately a relatively simple method exists for cleaning the rust off a stainless prop.
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Things You'll Need
- Simichrome polish or similar
- Clean rags
- Rubber gloves
- Naval jelly
- Scotch-Brite pads
Instructions
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1
Remove light rust from the prop by rubbing a generous amount of Simichrome Polish firmly into the prop with a Scotch-Brite pad.
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2
Allow the polish to dry to a haze, and then buff the surface of the prop with a clean, dry cloth.
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3
Put on the rubber gloves and use naval jelly to remove heavy rust on a stainless prop. Apply a coat of naval jelly to the surface of the prop and allowing it to work for 10 minutes.
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4
Rinse off the naval jelly, and wipe clean with a rag. Then apply Simichrome Polish as you did in Step 1.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Do not use steel wool when cleaning stainless steel; it will damage the finish.
