darkening connecting rods

[ASIANLIFE]

I need to make my connecting rods darker/more weathered. Can anyone suggest a product or technique ?

[modlerbob]

There is a blackener available from MicroMark.  It works OK but tends to rub off with time.  I've been told that gun bluing will work if you can find it.

A lot of chemicals that used to be available via mail order can no longer be shipped due to the possibility of environmental contamination.

[SteamGene]

I've used diluted black paint - normally weathered or oily, but at least dull.
Gene

[thirdrail]

I strongly suggest Neolube, which is available from P-B-L or Micro-Mark. It is actually finely powdered graphite suspended in an alcohol solution, so it leaves a fine coating of graphite on the rods. Rather than chipping, it does tend to get polished with wear, but more can be applied. It is a lubricant, but it is also electrically conductive, so be careful abut using it on rim-insulated wheels.

[richG]

I need to make my connecting rods darker/more weathered. Can anyone suggest a product or technique ?

This is what I use. I also use it on new NS wheel sets.

http://www.ares-server.com/Ares/Ares.asp?MerchantID=RET01229&Action=Catalog&Type=Product&ID=83181

I use a scratch brush on the front and back of new new wheel sets. I then brush on Neolube.
http://www.ares-server.com/Ares/Ares.asp?MerchantID=RET01229&Action=Catalog&Type=Product&ID=82466A


Rich

[r.cprmier]

Neolube is the way to go.  Use it as directed, and you will have good results.

Gunblueing, I believe, only works on ferrous metals.  I tried it on nickel silver rail, and it didn't work but marginally, if at all.

Paint would also be OK, as you can control the colour and depth. 

"Blacken-it" is also very good on non-ferrous metals-and, I believe, you can order it via mail.  A-west is the manufacturer.
Rich

[richG]

Neolube is the way to go.  Use it as directed, and you will have good results.

Gunblueing, I believe, only works on ferrous metals.  I tried it on nickel silver rail, and it didn't work but marginally, if at all.

"Blacken-it" is also very good on non-ferrous metals-and, I believe, you can order it via mail.  A-west is the manufacturer.
Rich

A scratch brush works very well. Then apply Neolube.
http://www.ares-server.com/Ares/Ares.asp?MerchantID=RET01229&Action=Catalog&Type=Product&ID=82466A

"Blacken-it" link.

http://www.ares-server.com/Ares/Ares.asp?MerchantID=RET01229&Action=Catalog&Type=Product&ID=60864

Link concerning gun blueing.
http://www.trains.com/TRC/CS/forums/ShowPost.aspx?PostID=1054336

Including links is a great help to those who are not aware of the product or source for the product. Other sources can be found by searching the "Net".

Rich

[r.cprmier]

Rich;
I didn't know the links and was too lazy to go looking.  Have a nice day.
Rich

[ASIANLIFE]

Thanks for the suggestions- much appreciated. You guys are an excellent online resource.