Watch more Great Craft Ideas videos: https://www.howcast.com/videos/292650-How-to-Age-Brass
It’s possible to mimic the surface oxidation of antique brass objects by using the following techniques.
Warning
If you use chemicals to age brass, wear gloves that completely cover your hands, and safety glasses. Work in a well-ventilated room.
Step 1: Remove any varnish
Remove any varnish from the surface of the object by applying acetone with a brush. Rinse off the acetone with hot water.
Tip
If you are not sure the object is made of brass – bronze and copper look similar – take it to an expert for an evaluation. Aging treatments that work for brass may damage other materials.
Step 2: Brush vinegar or salt water on the surface
Brush vinegar or salt water over the entire surface of the object using the paintbrush. Both liquids oxidize the brass.
Step 3: Apply heat
Apply heat or a flame to the object, which causes the brass object to take on an aged appearance relatively quickly.
Warning
Brass is often coated with lacquer. Be sure that all lacquer has been removed from the object before subjecting it to flame because lacquer is flammable.
Step 4: Use a commercial aging product
Apply an over-the-counter aging product, though it may leave a color deposit on the object’s surface that wears off easily during normal use.
Step 5: Use ammonia
Place the object in a large plastic bag next to a rag soaked in ammonia. Ammonia vapor produces a greenish-brown oxide finish on brass, close in color to a natural patina.
Did You Know?
Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc.
If you start to notice your FWD vehicle clicking when you make a tight turn, you might have an issue with the outer CV joint. If you make a right turn, it’s usually the left side that’s bad and vice versa. Most axles are easy to replace and the one depicted in this video is fairly typical of what you run into. The main differences come in with how the lower ball joint is attached. I think this part will give you the most trouble. I often get asked about what to torque the axle nut to. To be hones, I don’t know. I’ve only ever run them down with my impact. I’ve never had an issue doing it that way and I don’t think you would either. Just be sure to stake the nut or install the cotter pin and retaining clip if it has one. If you’d like more information on how to deal with suspension noises, check out this article I wrote on the topic.
https://www.ericthecarguy.com/faq/diagnosing-noises-in-your-car
Video on CV boot replacement: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-S-ofMoWsr0
The best place for answers to your automotive questions: https://www.ericthecarguy.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EricTheCarGuy?fref=ts
Twitter: https://twitter.com/EricTheCarGuy
Google+: https://plus.google.com/100195180196698058780/posts
Information on Premium Membership: https://www.ericthecarguy.com/premium-content-streaming-etcg-content
Stay Dirty
ETCG
Due to factors beyond the control of EricTheCarGuy, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information, or improper use of this information. EricTheCarGuy assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. EricTheCarGuy recommends safe practices when working with power tools, automotive lifts, lifting tools, jack stands, electrical equipment, blunt instruments, chemicals, lubricants, or any other tools or equipment seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of EricTheCarGuy, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not EricTheCarGuy.