Putting tools in storage

[ed vitanovec]

I have some tools with cast iron tops that I need to put in storage for at least 1 year. I am concerned about the tops rusting, what do you all recommend I do to protect them?

Thanks!
Ed

[Peter Kelly]

VCI paper. Not easy to find in smaller quantities but certainly easier to remove than Cosmoline.

[Jim Andrew]

I'd be tempted to brush the tops with grease. We used to have to grease plow moldboards, just took a paint brush and spread grease like you were painting them. If you put a layer of wax paper over the grease, it won't dry like it would uncovered. I just cleaned up 2 new machines, one had wax paper, and the grease was easy to remove with paper towels, the other grease had dried, used a putty knive to scrape it off. Be a lot easier to clean up than rust spots.

[HANK METZ]

You may already have the solution on your finishes shelf: boiled linseed oil. It polymerizes and forms a very effective barrier. I've used it for years on drill press tables, columns, machine restorations, etc.

- Beachside Hank
Improvise, adapt, overcome; the essence of true craftsmanship.

[ed vitanovec]

Hank, I will buy some boilded linseed oil. I don't have a lot of time to order any special sparys so the linseed oil may be best. So how does this stuff clean up?

[HANK METZ]

Don't clean it up Ed, it's a legitimate wearing surface coat, like wax, only it greatly inhibits the attraction of moisture far better. Just daub some on a rag and wipe it on, wipe off excess- you don't need a heavy build.


- Beachside Hank
Improvise, adapt, overcome; the essence of true craftsmanship.

[ed vitanovec]

Thanks Hank! I bought some today and will coat the tops tomorrow. How long will this coating last with my tools in storage?

[HANK METZ]

That would depend on the storage conditions Ed, but I suspect you'll have no major concerns when it's time to setup again.

- Beachside Hank
Improvise, adapt, overcome; the essence of true craftsmanship.