I'm rebuilding an old bamboo surf rod. The crimson agate tip is fine but the finish on the metal is dirty.etc. What can be done to restore it to it's original beauty?

Martin,

First try soaking in alcohol. This may remove any old varnish or lacquer that was applied to the tip top. Then scrub with an acid brush or old toothbrush. For further cleaning try an ultrasonic bath in acetone or a de-greasing/cleaning agent. If you can get it clean but it still looks bad you might want to consider re-plating it with nickle. I am now offering electroplating services for this type of project. Feel free to contact me for further information.

Jeff
Platte River Rods & Fultz Rod Co.

Simichrome polish will do the trick too. Great stuff for that old metal to become new again.

Tight lines,

Art

I soak the guides in CLR then clean them with a tooth brush and DAWN dish soap. It may not make them shiny bright but it does leave a nice patina that I give a shot of PLEDGE to preserve the patina. I have done a few old bamboo surf rods and have even upgraded one with a spiral wrap it looks pretty cool too!
LARRY