Trick for Removing Rust on a Bike

In this video I demonstrate an easy and affordable trick for removing corrosion from bicycle parts. All that is needed is some aluminum foil, water, and a clean rag. This trick only works for parts which are made of Chrome-plated (Chromium-plated) steel.

After demonstrating the procedure for removing the rust, I explain some of the science behind it and why it works so well. My theories are based mostly on my observations. Please be aware that I am not an expert in the field of metallurgy and I have not researched this topic extensively.

If you have any questions about this procedure, please leave a comment below.

I hope you enjoyed this video. Please COMMENT and subscribe!
Thanks for watching.

[banburylitho]

I would have loved science at school if the teachers taught practical lessons like this chap

[steveroberts]

Once you've cleaned off the rust and have a clear surface, apply a good quality car polish to it. This will help protect it from further rusting by creating a very thin film of wax or polymer on the surface, thus reducing the potential for further oxidisation.

[kevinjohns]

This probably is the best description and informational video on YouTube

[cliffraven]

After cleaning with the foil and letting it dry can you close those pores with turtle wax this would prevent oxygen getting into the steel.

[vincentalykin]

This was a great video. I like the diagram/images that you used to explain the reason behind rust-formation and why aluminum foil gets rid of the rust. It makes the understanding of the process so much easier. Keep up the good work.

[teshg]

Ive just recently got my bike out that's been at the side of the house for the past 2 years, was worried I wouldn't be able to sort it due to the rust but this worked really well, thanks!

[tanyathompson]

This was the best explanation on RUST ever. Thanks for your effort

[megastick]

I’ve used foil and water on numerous motorcycle parts over the years. It works wonderfully. I’ve brought back many parts others would have thrown out. As long as the chrome hasn’t flaked of it works. The wax afterward is key to preservation.
If you get to a weld joint or similar it’s sometimes not possible to get it nice. At that point I sometimes tape off the good chrome and paint the joint if it can look good and symmetrical.
For instance, on a front crash bar, the point where the top bolt on and the ends bolt to the frame. You can tape both sides of the joint and paint the middle, where it connects to the frame. The paint will blend in with the frame and looks good.

[LasseGreiner]

As Aluminium is also down the oxidation potential, reducing iron with aluminium will help. This would also explain why wetting is necessary. Without an electrolyte (such as water) oxidation is much slower. That is one reason why seawater is a corrosion accelerator.

[RobMacKendrick]

Thanks for the great advice! Some sources suggest using brass wool in these kinds of instances, but I find the steel tends to rub some of the brass off, leaving a yellowish cast on the work. With your approach, the steel is rubbing off aluminium, which isn't much different in colour from the chromium, so it's not a problem. I'll be using this technique for lots of stuff from now on. Thanks again!

[gavinwkc]

Wow, this is such a super clear explanation of this common phenomenon that I never thought to be bothered with. Thanks again!!

[brighton_dude]

I think these neat well made videos with tips might start to gain a wider audience on YouTube. I do hope so they are excellent.

[Delrada]

I just tried this on the fork legs of my motorbike, which had some rusting due to sitting still during lockdown. Wow! It really works. Instant success. Thank you.

[josephhackett]

This worked amazingly! I used this on the handlebar and any other chrome surface I could find then disassembled the rusty bolts and bike pedals and soaked them in Iron Out. 30 year old bike that's been sitting outside looks as good as new!

[rayheatley]

Thank you, I had heard about using aluminum to remove rust from chrome but now thanks to you I know how to do it. You have made my life a bit brighter. Ray

[marknesselhaus]

Wow, what a difference. My wife just walked home with a free rusted Huffy with flat tires for me to fix up and ride along with her and I tried out your method on the fenders. Works like a charm.

[bojack-horseman]

my bike's fork was more rust than chrome yesterday, now it looks almost new. thanks bro

[TheHavnmonkey]

These instructions should be attached to every "cheap" bike ever sold... I had so many rusty chrome handlebars growing up as a kid. Would have loved to do this magic on them! gonna go clean the bars on my klunker cruiser this weekend. Thanks!

[BubblePi]

One of the rare times when youtube comes home with the goods - cheers to you cjhoyle 👏👏

[jamiek]

Props on the vide dude, very well made and this should be the benchmark on how all other tutorials are made. Can always tell when someone knows their onions. Well done 😁