OOPs - I have rust on precision engine surfaces

Then we moved and the block was hauled to my new location, placed in the barn under cover and not touched for two months as I helped my wife get the house in order.

Now I have light surface rust on the sleeves and the top of the block. I used prelube and coated everything with 90 weight gear oil but obviously that was not the trick to store it.

First question, what do I use to get the rust off? If I use Emory cloth, steel wool or other light medium there will be filings, etc. in places that are not the best as the rings and bearings are still in. Or does it have to be re-torn apart? I am also thinking about Picklex as well but not sure how that would react with the gaskets or oil later on?

Secondly, how do I keep the rust from returning until I can get the pieces painted and start reassembly? Picklex is obvious but same concerns as above. My only thought is grease as the 90 oil did not work.

Thanks for any advice.

IMO..depends on how "deep" the rust is on the surface. In a bore...I wouldn't worry too much about it, as long as the "cratering" is shallow. Cleanliness is the most important part...try and keep the removed rust off the piston/bore gap.

As a matter of fact, I've got a car block at home with exactly the same dilemma. Machined, then moved and the storage bag got ripped during the move without my knowing. :(

HoosierDave

Keeping the engine as dry as possible will help keep the rust from progressing. I'd suggest wrapping it tightly in heavy plastic with the seams taped to make it airtight. Put some dessicant (silica gel) inside the wrapping to absorb any moisture. I believe you can get silica gel at craft stores - its used for drying flowers.

Keith

PS - there's always cosmoline, although I have no idea where to get it...