Looking for some advise. Just picked up my first KampKook stove, m#2422. Came with the instruction booklet and about 80% of the paint, both on the stove and fuel take. There is a line of rust that runs the full length of the of the lid (see pics). I'm looking for suggestions on how to remove the rust without damaging the paint around it. I thought maybe take a small brush and apply a coat of vinegar (perhaps more then once) on the rusted area. Let it sit for about 20-30 minutes. Then rinse and use 0000 steal wool (carefully) or small head wire brush. All ideas are welcome. Perhaps you can identify the age of this stove (my guess is a few years post WWII). Its a two burner with wide steel legs that fold over the lid and a red fuel tank
After seeing what they do with enamel signs, you could try masking the label with low tack tape, and very gently rubbing the rest of the surface with WD40 and 0000 wire wool see how that goes. Clean with paper towels accept what's left as patina and protect with a clear coat of lacquer or acrylic varnish.
I've had good luck with a commercial phosphoric acid product, marketed in the US as "Ospho". You just brush or lightly sand any loose rust particles (and loose paint flakes) off and then paint with the Ospho. The iron oxide is converted into an iron phosphate compound that seals the surface and prevents further rust. The treated surface will cure to something between gray and black and can be painted over -- the cured Ospho acts as a primer. In my experience, Ospho does not harm existing paint. It never really dries on top of the paint but forms a gummy residue that can be wiped off with a damp cloth. (Disclaimer: I have no relationship with the company that makes Ospho (other than being a customer) and have used this product for many years.) ....Arch
