Restore A Saw

[Chipchopper]

Hi Guys
I have an old cross-cut saw, which I'm in the process of restoring. I've replaced the wooden handles which were peppered with woodworm and now want to clean the rust from the steel blade.
I don't want to necessarily want to use the saw again but would like to stop it rusting further.

Thanks for any advice.

[Buenchico]

I know nothing about restoring tools but my instinct in this situation would be to reach for the WD40. Youtube appears to show that, for once, I might have got it right:

[ummmm]

My first thought was also WD40.

[KARL]

Depending on how you propose to handle the saw in the future, or not handle it, it matters where and how it is stored. WD40 evaporates rather faster than most people realise so you would need to keep a close eye on the saw as time passes in order to re-coat it. Alternatively you could, after applying WD40, wipe ordinary engine oil onto it - make certain it is clean and unused so as not to risk sulphur compounds in too great a concentration. This sort of treatment should preserve the saw's finish for months at a time.

[Old_Geezer]

Dilute vinegar soaks removes rust. Grease coating helps preventing rerusting.

[wolf63]

Chipchopper
I thought that you were going to say say that the old saw was going to get a new blade as well as a new handle. Then remembered this ...

[Buenchico]

That was what I thought of when I first read the post, Susan ;-)

[sanmac]

I've been using this stuff for years. It's reusable, environmentally safe, and most importantly it works better than WD40 and the home-made remedies: http://www.evapo-rust.co.uk/

[waterboatman]

WD 40 and steel wool. Wear stout gloves.

[Theland]

Throw the saw away and buy another when you need it.
Cheap as chips!

[sanmac]

Theland, possibly it might have some sentimental value.

[Theland]

Then keep the handle!
Personally I don't hang on to stuff because it was grandads but each to their own. With respect.

[Chipchopper]

Thanks all for the advice.

the saw is staying.