Prop Discoloration 4b
In this part two issue of our Blog 4a & 4b, we are focusing on the issue of prop discoloration and how to prevent it and/or shine it up again.
Most of us grow up believing that stainless steel is stain-free. I also grew up believing in Santa, but I have come to accept that “stainless” isn’t “stain-free”. There are many things that can cause it to lose its shine — fortunately; there are simple steps we can take to maintain the original shine.
RUST AND STAINS
The truth of the matter is, even with the highest-quality stainless, discoloration, stains or even rust can appear. Corrosion can result when stuff finds its way into contact with the steel, such as salt deposits or bits of carbon steel left behind from dragging an anchor chain across a stainless rail.
The only hope of keeping stainless looking new is to clean it whenever it shows signs of being dull, dirty or tarnished. Most of the time, simply washing with a mild detergent or soap and warm water is sufficient. Rinse immediately with clean water, and then wipe it dry with a soft cloth.
Never use steel wool, sandpaper or any other abrasive cleaning methods on stainless steel. Also avoid mineral acids, bleaches or chlorine cleansers. And to help prevent corrosion from returning, protect the surface with a barrier coat of paste wax.
An idea is to use lemon juice and salt. Tried this method, scrubbing the solution on the stained metal with a toothbrush, and then washing with soap and water, rinsing thoroughly and drying with a soft cloth. With a bit of elbow grease, this recipe worked okay – However, the Lemon & Salt could be put to a better use with a beverage, if you know what I mean.
The best is a metal polish called Brasso. Almost instantly, the tarnish and light rust were gone, and the stainless steel gleamed like new. So, from now on, I’ll save the lemon and salt for the fish and carry some metal polish.
The easiest solution is to care for the prop before it ever goes in salt water, is to maintain & wash with fresh water after every use and wipe down with a light coat of WD-40. Have a grrrrreat stain-free time on the water. The Proptologist
