How to remove rust from old auto parts ..
- Thread starter Ghost
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Not sure if the Loctite Extend Rust Neutralizer will handle high heat temps from exhaust manifolds but it does have a place to use on MANY other rusted over items then paint it , like a old oil pan , valve covers etc , bring it back to looking new again 
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.It seems vinegar is a do it all solution but I don't like its smell 
Just saw this on Amazon and remembered your post.
Meuvcol 2-in-1 Rust Converter & Metal Primer, 35 Floz Black Rust Remover Paint For Metal, Ultra Automotive Rust Reformer & Seal, Long-Lasting Rust Preventative Coating, Rust Inhibitor Repair Kit
Just saw this on Amazon and remembered your post.
Meuvcol 2-in-1 Rust Converter & Metal Primer, 35 Floz Black Rust Remover Paint For Metal, Ultra Automotive Rust Reformer & Seal, Long-Lasting Rust Preventative Coating, Rust Inhibitor Repair Kit
@vanTorX - Might be good for all the rusted stuff pictured , but exhaust manifolds will burn that off quick in like just a few minutes .
Engine exhaust manifolds typically operate between 600°F and 1,200°F (316°C–649°C) during normal operation, though they can exceed 1,600°F under high loads or performance driving
Engine exhaust manifolds typically operate between 600°F and 1,200°F (316°C–649°C) during normal operation, though they can exceed 1,600°F under high loads or performance driving
As of today April 16th 2026 , I put 1 header in 2 gallons of 5 % acidic vinegar and it was only 3 hours later it was already making the rust fall off . Being 5 % it will take longer , if I had 10% acidic it would be bubbly a little . These will soak ( each header ) for 24 hours or longer . Just look at that 409 STAINLESS STEEL 
I just swaped the clear flimsey tub out for a taller smaller size thicker tub that fit the headers better , more vinegar coverage WOOT .
I just swaped the clear flimsey tub out for a taller smaller size thicker tub that fit the headers better , more vinegar coverage WOOT .
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) and some more vinegar , I am sold on this method of removing rust from many objects , and it is pet and earth friendly
Yea , I did not know that just 5% vinegar would do such a great job , also these have been sitting in a tub for like maybe 4 days , I know of 3 . This was like the easiest solution to all the high priced rust remover spray or paste solutions . And I was told these are not stainless steel , if not what on earth is this metal make up , as these are not pitted at all , what you see is what all of it looks like , just odd metal as mild steel would have some sort of small pitting inside the tubes , even aluminum over mild steel would do the same , what is it is a mystery ?
Probably the vinegar can be reused many times, don't know if some active part of it gets exhausted from it? I use CLR for all those calcium deposits on plumbing, also water kettles etc, but women use vinegar....
I reuse CLR, only sometimes throw out the dirty bottom. Didn't notice it not doing the job even after many reuse.
Trick is always to find the most efficient container for the job, so you don't need too much of the stuff, vinegar or CLR. Always handy to have on hand those clear plastic bins of various sizes. For vinegar I'd put the lid on the bin to keep the smell in, don't know if vinegar evaporates or the active ingredient in it.
I reuse CLR, only sometimes throw out the dirty bottom. Didn't notice it not doing the job even after many reuse.
Trick is always to find the most efficient container for the job, so you don't need too much of the stuff, vinegar or CLR. Always handy to have on hand those clear plastic bins of various sizes. For vinegar I'd put the lid on the bin to keep the smell in, don't know if vinegar evaporates or the active ingredient in it.