Cleaning rusty cast iron balls?

[kt]

I've found a rusty 1.7 inch iron sphere that I'd like to clean up and see if I can find any writing on. There was quite a bit of Civil War activity in my area, but I seriously doubt if there were any 18 pounders around, for this ball to be canister shot. If I had to guess I'd say it was a rusty old gate weight, or maybe some industrial trash (lots of 19th Century railroad activity in my area too - there was a large locomotive repair facility a mile down the road from where I found the ball).

What is the easiest and quickest way to clean up a rusty ball of iron? Chemicals? Electrolysis? Any opinions would be appreciated.

 

[brianc577]

For my dirty balls I use warm water and a wash cloth.

 

[DIGGER-SEAN-N-VA]

Kt, look up reverse electrolysis. You can clean it up with a 9 volt, baking soda, a spoon, some copper wires, clean water and a bowl.
Good luck and post some pics when done

 

[LaRelic]

I recommend electrolysis. Hook the negative to the part being cleaned. If you hook the positive to the part being cleaned you then are electroplating which you do not want to do. I use arm and hammer washing soda and not baking soda. Washing soda is a cleaner method in my opinion. Although everyone has there own way of doing things. I use a Manuel battery charger and run the amps low. Should clean up fine....HH

 

[Cajuncoinhunter]

you tube shows lots of methods too. CCH

 

[kt]

Thanks everyone, I'll give electrolysis a shot.

 

[2 Much Trash]

:rofl brianc577:: I can't stop laughing. But all jokes aside. Have you ever found any writing on them?

 

[Cajuncoinhunter]

:rofl brianc577:: I can't stop laughing. But all jokes aside. Have you ever found any writing on them?

Once my father-in-law found a CW cannonball especially for me at a garage sale. It had writing on it ! Too bad it was a SHOT PUT. Ha. CCH

 

[LaRelic]

Lol CCH, well it's the thought that counts!