degreasing for rust bluing

[tpl77]

What's the preferred cleaning solution to boil the parts in prior to applying the rusting solution? Currently, I wipe the parts with acetone, then I boil the parts in Simple Green and water, then wipe them with denatured alcohol, but I wonder if there's a better method.

I struggled a little with the last gun I did. I had a couple streaked areas that never really blended in after numerous coats of Pilkington's solution. I had posted an earlier question on this topic last April and the consensus was that I had to clean my parts better.

Thanks in advance for any input.

 

[lazyeye]

The last time I rust blued something I used plain ole' denatured alcohol and it worked great.

 

[dclevinger]

Most of the guys I know use one of Brownell's cleaners or something similar.
http://www.brownells.com/aspx/ns/store/ProductDetail.aspx?p=17403&title=NH 909?
or
http://www.brownells.com/aspx/ns/store/ProductDetail.aspx?p=1065&title=DICRO-CLEAN NO. 909
Both work very well but require another heated tank, since the solution has to be heated to 180', and a seperate rinse tank of some sort.
For small parts, I just give it a good blasting with non-chlorinated brake cleaner before boiling.

David

 

[EMC45]

Acetone.

 

[danthegunman]

Before I start rust bluing I wipe the barrels with acetone then boil the barrels in Joy liquid detergent. Just a few drops really cleans it. Then I boil it with plain water, then wipe it down once again with acetone.

 

[hilltopper55]

Laurel Mountain Forge Brown and Degreaser

Degreasing is not a problem when you use LMF. The degreaser is already in the mix. I have used it and it works.

 

[Sunray]

Use mineral spirits. No boiling required and it's cheap.