Can I save an old IBM computer case from rust?

I have a beat up 1984 IBM PC AT Model 5170 has some unsightly surface rust on its case. A friend recommended I use automotive wheel cleaner as a way to remove the surface rust without affecting the original paint. (As I do not have the resources or time to completely sand and repaint the computer case.) Let's experiment and give this a try to see if it works!

Here is what I used:

Iron Free Wheel Cleaner:

Paint Protect:

[yuchong]

This is a phenomenal result! I am surprised this didn't go viral and get the number of views it deserves. Perhaps the thumbnail needs to show more than a boring old PC case. This treatments needs to be used on ALL rusty computers!

[maxtornogood]

Nothing quite like watching rust turn into bl00d splatter. Looks almost perfect compared to previously!

[mistermmuk]

I clean my computers with progressively stronger flash solution. Rusted areas I treat with a ketchup and white vinegar solution that I scrape off when black. Oiling will offer a little rust prevention but leaving any metal item in a cold area will cause condensation and rust. Old computers left in cold garages and sheds just rust away.

[rdxdt]

2:58 FINALLY someone that care to differentiate acids from bases, everytime that someone call acid on the substance that leaks from nicad batteries, i cringe.

[pic]

Awesome video. I’m going to do this on my own IBM PC AT next week, I have exactly the same issue in the same place. I’m ordering in the products now. Thanks for taking the time to post, really helpful.

[AgentOrange]

I recently fixed up the IBM 5160 that was my Grandfather's back in the day. I cleaned it up quite a bit among other things, and he was super impressed by it! He kept saying it looked brand new, and indeed it did look good. But there was one notable issue: Those tiny specs of rust. So, I'll probably do this when I get a chance! This is awesome!

[leisergeist]

Wow! I thought I would have to completely sand and repaint mine if I wanted to restore it, but this looks so simple. Still gotta give it some kind of coat, but no sanding!
Thanks for sharing this.

[KomradeMikhail]

Seems like a good way to deal with those tiny fallout pittings.

I have only tackled larger sections of rust on computer cases myself.

A soft brush wire wheel dremel to remove the rust, and a bath in a large plastic tub of vinegar to neutralize the corrosion.

Matching the paint is the tough part...

[ObiWanBillKenobi]

Thanks very much for this video and the product links! I may end up using this myself on a future purchase in mind.

[CTCTraining]

I’m not usually intrigued by cleaning videos, so this is a first. Well done.

[obsoletebutneat]

I've got an ATR-8000 (a wicked-cool Atari 400 peripheral) that has MAJOR rust damage to it's top shell. I'm expecting I'll have to use a belt sander to strip the rust out and then use bondo and appliance paint to get the finish cleaned up. That Iron Free looks like a good starting point, though!

[purpleravenstar]

Sand it down, lay new rust converter, primer, base paint and epoxy-based sealant like POR-15. Works great for car frames if you live in the rust belt.

I did the same procedure for an IBM Model F keyboard I bought off eBay a while ago (built December 1984), put an active XT-AT protocol converter with an USB interface, and she chooches in my i7-based laptop.

[isx]

Thank you for this. I have a Compaq Prolinea 4/25S with some rust spots/corrosion, but its on unpainted parts of the case. I'm giving your method a go.

[alritedave]

You should use some of that IronFree on that super rusted C64!!

[bledrestman]

I just got an old Gateway full size tower and it is the same one I had growing up as a kid. Most of the outside is in good shape but the metal interior is rusted on the bottom. Going to try this and hopefully it fixes it!

[woodengamer]

That is awesome!! I have some rust on my 5160s and my 5170 that I was wondering how to tackle. Looks like I have a fun project coming up in the near future!!

[siskodata]

That is not automobile spray paint but powder coating. You did a good job. My spray painting is bad so I would have taken it to someone to re powder coat it, it is more durable that is why it survived all this time.

[brothersinmetal]

Great job. I have a rusty compaq I’m going to try this on!

[_Hertz]

Meguiar's? I've never had a problem with their products. Anything I've used by them gives good to great results.

[nilz]

You're basement carpet is awesome.