Question: I have bought a VMAR Engine Test Stand #VMA-ETS120. Some of the metal hardware appears to be rusty. Is this a problem? What should I do?

 

Answer: This item is sourced from a factory in Southeast Asia. The temperature and humidity in the tropics are both high and the combination of high temperature and high humidity creates surface rust on all ferrous materials even when they are treated with normal plating.

 

The rust is surface based only and does not affect the utility or longevity of the product. Remember that an engine test stand will normally be literally dripping with oil within a few minutes of first use.

 

If you wish to remove the rust, one simple trick is to put the metal parts in a sock or bag and wash them with dishwasher soap in a dishwasher. Do NOT use the dry cycle... wash only. Then remove the metal parts and dry them by hand using a paper towel. Any rust remaining on rods or flat metal plates can then be removed using a bit of sandpaper. Finally, use a few drops of WD40 or 3-in-1 Oil to lubricate the bolt threads and you will be good to go.