Electrolysis to clean reels?

[Whit]

Wondering if electrolysis is a viable way to get rid of corrosion and other saltwater detrius on old reels.

Tried the search feature here to get an answer as well as on-line but maybe my google fu is not so good.

Thoughts? Experiences?

Thanks in advance!

Whit

[jurelometer]

Seems a bit aggressive.  Risky for plated parts, will remove paints, and less noble metals (aluminum, zinc, "pot metals") can get damaged.
It seems best suited for removing rust from steel/iron. I have considered trying it to rescue old rusted steel tools, but never got around to it.

Here is a link that I was looking at: http://antique-engine.ns.ca/electrolysis.html

If you give it a try, let us know how it turns out.

-J

[Rancanfish]

I think, with no knowledge, that you would risk pitting anything plated. But yes do it. We all need to know now.

[Whit]

Seems a bit aggressive.  Risky for plated parts, will remove paints, and less noble metals (aluminum, zinc, "pot metals") can get damaged.
It seems best suited for removing rust from steel/iron. I have considered trying it to rescue old rusted steel tools, but never got around to it.

Here is a link that I was looking at: http://antique-engine.ns.ca/electrolysis.html


That link look super informative, thanks.  I'm going to pursue this.  As to destroying old parts, the ones I have in mind are pretty much toast, so nothing ventured, nothing gained. 
If you give it a try, let us know how it turns out.

-J