How do I clean brass switch plates that were lacquered?
by
Gayle Loney
I would like to clean these and relacquer Any suggestions
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I cleaned a brass beds once (many years ago 20? )that had lacquer on it with "Lysol Toilet Bowl Cleaner". I had to use Lysol because it is thicker. The lye ate the lacquer and tarnish. I then polished it with polish. Test a corner of the switch plate by dipping it in the cleaner. Let it sit for awhile, rinse with soap and water. Hope it works for you.
Try soaking in hot vinegar for 15 mins or so and the lacquer should slide right off. Lacquer thinner and acetone may also be remove it.
You can buy a product on line called Aircraft Remover. It is a paint remover that will remove the lacquer in about 5 minutes. It is also available at AutoZone stores. About 15 bucks for a quart. Dip it and let it soak or put on with a brush. Wash and dry thoroughly after that. I have been using it for a couple of years to clean up brass storm door handles, etc. Works perfectly. Use gloves!