As you know, I am a big fan of garage sales. When I'm not searching for vintage vinyl, I'm looking for cheap tools for my many DIY adventures. All too often, though, the tools that you find are rusted, dirty and seemingly beyond repair. But, if you know the right tricks, you can turn that tool from tragic to like new.
According to Popular Mechanics: "Start by giving your tools a bath in white vinegar. This is a non-toxic and chemical free solution that works surprisingly well in removing surface rust. After the tools have soaked for a few hours, use a wire brush to remove all excess debris.
Next, use a combination of a bench grinder with a wire brush to really clean up all metal surfaces of your hand tools. Remove as much of the dirt and rust coloring as you can with the wire wheel, but be careful not to damage the tool and a little patina never hurt anyone. A belt sander is used to sharpen chisels and put a final shine on any metal tools."