Resurrecting a 38 year old motorcycle

Step 4 Tackling rusty rims

The rims on this project bike were in terrible shape.  The front wheel was entirely coated in rust, including every spoke.  Fortunately, however, this was just surface rust and pitting -- the integrity of the rims was still sound.

I started with 120 grit paper and worked my way down to 220 grit on the rims and the spokes.  All-in-all I spent 7 hours sanding the front wheel and 3 hours sanding the rear wheel.

Before sanding the rims, I tried every rust-removing chemical I coudl find (including using cola!).  Unfortunately, the rust was just too profound for chemical removal, so I had to do it the hard way.

Once all the rust was removed, I sprayed each wheel with primer, then the hammered finish enamel.

Comments

[Bubbax]

Be cautiouse with restoring the wheel. Years of rust and corrosion may have weakend the spokes creating a dangerous situation If they were to fail in normal riding they would probably continue to loosen. A harsh shock to the rim may brake several at a time. Replacing spoke is possible and probably not to expensive but a pain. I would suggest a little more time on Ebay or a cycle salvage service for some wheels in better condition. Be careful.
I used to have a Yzinger we raced around the yard It was a blast
Bob

[aaronanalog]

A kiddie pool works great for electrolisis on frames. The good thing about it is that you can do half then flip it over and do the other side.

[jimbotheconflictor]

Did you look into electrolytic removal?

[knife141]

I looked into it briefly, but decided against it due to the extensive rust on the entire bike (would have taken a big vat and quite a long time to even do each rim).  I considered it for the fuel tank, but decided on using acid instead. 

[jimbotheconflictor]

Interesting. I'm taking the other path.
I'll be hooking up the tank today.
A friend dropped off a plastic 50 gal drum this morning to use for larger pieces as well. Although I doubt the frame itself will fit, i don't think it's rusty enough to justify building a larger one.

Instructables are forthcoming!

[knife141]

Good luck with your project!  I'm looking forward to seeing how this rust removal process goes.