Removing rust spots

curioustraveler · Posted: Tue Jul 07, 2020 8:44 pm Post subject: Removing rust spots

I've developed small rust spots all over my sink (size of a dime and smaller). Also seems to be some starting on my stove. Any idea what could be causing these? Just the humidity? I keep windows cracked and DampRid in the cabin but it's Maryland in July so the humidity is what it is.

Any idea how to clean this and also how to prevent it?

Thanks

easy does it · Posted: Wed Jul 08, 2020 7:03 am Post subject: post topic

"never dull" is incredible stuff and a can will last you for years

tsturm · Posted: Wed Jul 08, 2020 9:36 am Post subject: Re: Removing rust spots

thataway · Posted: Wed Jul 08, 2020 11:44 am Post subject:

Generally for rust spots, I use Bar Keeper's friend. The main ingredient is oxylic acid. There are waxes for SS, which work well. I also use Corrosion block, or Corrosion-X

Foggy · Posted: Wed Jul 08, 2020 1:55 pm Post subject:

Surprisingly, for a bunch of boaters, the obvious solution not yet
recommended for removing rust is, of course, Naval Jelly.

Perhaps it came to mind quickly for me since I spend considerable
time there, contemplating...

Aye.

thataway · Posted: Wed Jul 08, 2020 9:41 pm Post subject:

curioustraveler · Posted: Wed Jul 08, 2020 10:38 pm Post subject:

It just seems to be on the surface. I think what caused it is my wife spilled some DampRid into the sink. It probably sat in there for a few days. When I wiped it up I noticed some rust where the DampRid was.

I believe we have some Bar Keepers Friend so I'll try that. If it doesn't work, I'll get some Nevr Dull.

thataway · Posted: Thu Jul 09, 2020 10:08 pm Post subject:

Ah, Ha....Calcium Chloride is the ingredient in "Rid Damp". It is corrosive to SS alloys. That is your answer.

If you want the most effective way to lower humidity: use a powered dehumidifier. I have a couple of marine "Mighty Dry" units; they are no longer made. But any cheap WalMart type of dehumidifier will work well enough. Put the discharge hose thru the galley sink drain. The disadvantage of these is that they increase the temperature in the boat. An open window is great for air circulation--but may defeat the attempt to decrease the humidity.

curioustraveler · Posted: Thu Jul 09, 2020 10:31 pm Post subject:

Thataway,

Thanks for the info. Hopefully bar keeper's friend will work on in. Good to know the cause, it's not just humidity.

I assume the dehumidifier you mentioned requires AC power? Unfortunately I don't have shore power at the slip.

I keep a few windows cracked and she's actually stayed quite dry. My previous sailboat cabin constantly struggled with mildew. Between the v-berth and pilothouse hatch and the side windows, I think it stays quite ventilated. I also keep some Kanberra gel in there.

thataway · Posted: Fri Jul 10, 2020 12:19 pm Post subject:

I suspected that you didn't have power. Ventilation certainly helps. We have several solar powered vents, which keep the air circulating in and out.

Are the windows under protection so rain doesn't intrude?

I have also experimented with some small ozone generators, which have timers. Seems very effective. I have not used any of the 12 volt units however.

WeekiTiki · Posted: Fri Jul 10, 2020 4:51 pm Post subject:

Certainly don't recommend putting acid on stainless but...

Thirty years ago I had my boat hauled and there was a Morgan Sailboat nearby. Dude worked for weeks trying to rid the stern from rust stains. Finally told him for $100 I'd clean his transom. Should have seen his face when I sprayed it with Muriatic Acid and the whole stain melted away.

curioustraveler · Posted: Fri Jul 10, 2020 10:55 pm Post subject:

Bar Keeper's Friend worked great.

I've looked at installing some solar powered vents but so far, leaving the windows and hatches cracked open seems to work fine. Even in some heavy downpours we haven't gotten water in the cabin. (except through the seals on the cabin door...but that's a question for another thread.)