cleaning up the slant six head

I use vinegar to clean steel and remove plating all of the time. It isn't fast. I buy it in large jugs from Smart & Final if you have those in your area. If not try any restaurant type, semi W/D supply place. You'll spend a lot more buying it from the chain grocery stores.

When you rinse from any acidic type cleaning process you need to blow dry it immediately or it will flash rust right in front of your eyes. A light coating of something like WD-40 right after that is a good idea.