Stainless steel pressure wash

[geronimo]

Is it a good idea to pressure wash ("Karcher") surface rust on stainless steel, for example on standing rigging?

And if so, do you have to apply something after the wash?

Thank you!

 

[dingdongs]

try oxalic acid first which can be puchesed for a few quid off ebay.will do a grp hull too removing yellowing.one tablespoon to about a litre of water will do a whole boat.will get rid of your rusting but if not try aquabuff 2000.a pressure washer will do next to nothing.

 

[reeac]

"Surface rust on standing rigging?" Is this normal?

 

[vyv_cox]

"Surface rust on standing rigging?" Is this normal?

Yes, it is contact staining initiating in the tiny crevices caused by the wire drawing process, particularly if lubrication was a little low at the time. Rather than attack it chemically with oxalic acid you would do better to polish it off with a purpose made product, or Cream Cleaner. Not only is the latter very effective at removing rust from most stainless parts, such as stanchions, bimini frames, etc., but the polishing tends to remove the crevices and delay further attack.