In this video, I restore an adjustable wrench (also known as a shifter). While browsing Facebook Marketplace, I found this amidst a selection of old tools for sale. Intrigued by the potential of restoring it for the channel, I decided to make the purchase.
The wrench had clearly been laying in a toolbox under a very leaky garage roof for a while. This prolonged exposure to water had led to extensive rusting. A challenge to restore, but perfect for a contrasting before and after shot at the end of the video.
The initial step in restoring the wrench was its disassembly. However, this proved to be quite the challenge due to the adjusting gear being seized solid by rust. My initial attempt involved an overnight soak in rust remover, in the hope of dissolving the rust, allowing the gear to move freely. Unfortunately, the rust remover's performance fell short of expectations (Nitro Mors I want my money back).
Failing this, I decided to try a more hands-on approach. Using steel wool, I meticulously scrubbed away the rust, bringing the rusty surface back to bare metal. Then I clamped the gear between the vice grips, turning it slightly. I repeated this process until the gear was moving freely.
To completely remove all the rust from the individual components I opted for sandblasting, effectively stripping away all traces of rust and grime, leaving behind a uniform bare metal surface. I followed this by refiling the knurling on the gear. I really wasn't too happy with how it turned out, the individual grooves were so small I struggled to uniformly file them with the needle file I was using.
I continued by sanding all remaining surfaces smooth with a mixture of 80/120/240 Grit sand papers. Once I sanded the surfaces smooth, I thought that the wrench body looked a bit plain. I enjoy adding my own personal touches to all my restorations so for this one I decided to electro-etch my 'Restore More' Logo into the wrench body. Afterwards, I nickel plated all the individual components to give them a rust resistant finish.
To finalize the project I thought the etched logo needed colour. So, I enamel painted it blue. You would think this was an easy step... It took me 14 tries to get it right, 12 hour curing times each try. I was pulling my hair out by the end of it but eventually we got there!
I really hope you enjoy the video, please give me feedback on what you liked and how I can improve for the next one. I read all the comments and try to reply as fast as I can.
Thanks,
Restore More
Негізгі бет Rusty Adjustable Wrench - Restoration
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