Practice brushing on an old alloy casting or an inconspicuous part of your motor.

The area to be worked on must be free of oil, grease and grime, the smallest amount can be spread a long way. Wash well with detergents or degreaser.

The brush should be held like a pen almost perpendicular to the work surface and whilst pressing down move in all directions with short firm strokes. You will note the cut or bite of the brush varies when moved in different directions. This is due to the crimp or bend in the bristles and can be used to advantage at times. The aim is to remove oxidation and expose bright shiny metal. The fine bristles penetrate the tiny pits and depressions. You will need to press firmly and take your time. Try to work the brush evenly in all directions. Try to avoid bending bristles when inserting into thin grooves or crevices, and do not push the brush forwards at a shallow angle or the bristles will be bent back. After brushing an auto wax helps maintain lustre.

Refinshing the Flat Surfaces of Fins.

These notoriously difficult areas can be refinished by brushing but the shallow angle of approach means that only some of the bristle ends can brought into contact with the alloy and you will need to be patient. The bristle ends can be bent to one side which allows more bristles to touch the flat surface at once. The most practical way is to use a green 3M ScotchBrite pad with a household abrasive first then use the brush on any areas which require further attention.

Cleaning Brushes

If brush gets clogged with grease or grime drag the bristles backwards on rough concrete or old carpet. Rotate the brush as it is dragged backwards and most of the debris will be gone. This will also reshape the bristle tips.

Brushes may be washed in suitable solvents ( compatable with epoxy resin ) or hot water and detergents. They may be placed in boiling water or autoclaved, but do not use until cool.

Shake out any liquid from handle. Store dry.

Rejuvenating your Brush

The bristles are very durable, but eventually will wear down or fatigue. They are secured deep within the handle and a new working set of bristles can be revealed by removing a section of the handle. Each brush can be renewed several times.

Make a groove around the handle about 10 mm. from the tip with a triangular file. Complete the circular groove down to the bristles and discard the brass section. Cut bristles with sharp tinsnips or cutters to suitable shape and length. Do not exert any pull on the bristles whilst making the cut. The newly cut bristle ends will have very sharp edges and should be worked in by rubbing on concrete or brick for a few minutes before use on soft metals. Your brush is now ready to perform as new.

All brushes are handmade and guaranteed free of manufacturing defects.

The Machinery Cleanery