using a tumbler vs sandblasting

[AmadeusCharger500]

I just bought a tumbler. I always had this idea that the parts would come out sparkly clean. Up to this point I have usually held small parts with a pair of plyers and sandblast them. I have to say after 3 hours in the tumbler and only about 10 nuts and bolts, I am not impressed.
I used a plastic media that is in the shape of small triangles.
Can anyone tell me, should I try different media, let it tumble longer, or just give up and go back to sandblasting and crush me rust removal dreams.

[Charger-Bodie]

the plastic will clean paint off fairley well but you will need the tiny rocks for really cleaning stuff like rust

[jaak]

Although I have not used one before (I was planning on getting one also), People I have talked to said you pretty much need to let it tumble all night long, and I am not real sure about the media your using.

Jason

[mikepmcs]

Go to Michaels or whatever craft store they have where you live and get this stuff.  It should work for you.  I bought one for jewelry that i make and used it once.  Notice I said once.  It ruined the piece, but I bet it will work just fine for removing rust.

v/r
Mike

[Silver R/T]

you need sand for blasting rust off of parts

[AmadeusCharger500]

I used a rust cutting resin abrasive from Harbor Freight.

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Displayitem.taf?itemnumber=93832

It claims it is for rust on threads.

Is sand really an option in a tumbler?

[mikepmcs]

refer to my pictures above, the cheapo tumbler I have, I don't see any reason not to put sand in it, it's basically just a little cup with a lid, add the metal, add the medium  and a little water and tumble away.

I'll give it a shot tonight, I'm going to get a rusty bolt and throw it in there and see what happens. ok a spring too.  Here's a before picture.

v/r
Mike

[daytonalo]

Do they make one big enough to put my car in ?

[mikepmcs]

Here's the result after about 8 hours of tumbling.

It's interesting to note the spring feels a little gritty now and it didn't remove any of the paint on the inside of the spring.  It did ok on the bolt and it removed most of the rust.  You be the judge.  If it were me, I would sandblast if I had the option.

v/r
Mike

[daytonalo]

I'm going to give you guys a tip to duplicate black oxide finish that I use on restorations .On all small harware make a small basket , thr

[AmadeusCharger500]

Thanks Mike- I agree I think sandblasting does a better job.

Unless datonalo would finish his thought, and give me Ah Ha to think on.

[Shakey]

I use the wire wheel for small & large items and a sandblaster for really large items.  Hold them with vise grips and wear saftey glasses and long sleeves.  If you have numerous nuts and bolts, take them and have them acid dipped.

[daytonalo]

I'm sorry , let me finish . First off make a basket out of chicken wire , toss a small bolts into it , throw the basket in you blasting cabinet while shaking basket around , this way they all get blasted . OK , this what I have been doing for years now to duplicate black oxide , I have a 2x6 with all different size holes drilled various depths and insert bolt in each hole . Take a propane torch and heat each bolt , watch carefully you will see the dampness evaporate from the part , now spray them with B-Q black paint , while the part is still hot , the paint will fuse to the part . When done finish looks like black oxide and wont chip off when tightened . It has worked for me for years !!!!!!