If you dive deep enough into your restoration, you’ll find that there are some obscure fasteners that just aren’t available from AMK or others. Or, you may be doing something small, but have to source a fastener from salvage that looks rough. I’ve had to reuse some of my original phosphate fasteners in instances that I’ve been unable to find exact new ones. I’ve found that with an easy process, I’ve been able to make them indistinguishable from new. First, I obviously use the best originals I have and soak them in a Tupperware cup of Rustoleum rust remover. I’ve tried other well known and even pricier alternatives, but have grown to like Rustoleum’s best. After allowing them to soak overnight, I thoroughly rinse them and clean with mineral spirits. Next, using a piece of cardboard with holes punched allowing the fasteners to “stand”, I lightly spray them with Rustoleum flat black. After allowing them to dry properly, I put them on a baking sheet with parchment paper and bake them for about 10 minutes at around 270 degrees. Not only do they look new, but will even hold up to gentle socket tightening without a blemish. Obviously, you have to flip bolts to thoroughly get both ends and nuts need partially threaded on a scrap bolt and then flipped too.

 

looks good Ken thanks for sharing

 

I agree, nice alternative.