Rust Removal using Electrolysis

I've know Bill Dickerson (first link) for a few years, now. I tried derusting parts like this for a while before I gave up on it. It's great for smaller parts like nuts and bolts and brackets but larger parts take a while. I stuck a 57-58 371 Pontiac Tri-Power manifold in the tank and ran it about 10 hours a day for about a week. It removed about 90% of the rust so I ran it a few more days. It never did get 100% of the rust off it. It leaves a black residue that is hard to remove and must be done by hand. I also burned up a new battery charger and a cheap older one in the process and you need to keep cleaning or changing the electrodes every few hours. Not to mention it's dangerous due to the hydrogen gas that is produced - you almost have to do it outside. Overall, I think it's a neat science fair experiment but not really cost effective and is pretty time consuming. Just my 2 cents. :wink:

That molasses deal looks kinda neat, though - I have a 340 crank that got a little rusty after being machined - I think I might try that.