I am a fan of Simichrome for cleaning metal, especially brass.  I've never
lacquered, but don't expect anything to last 25 years in my neighborhod.

On Fri, Oct 12, 2018 at 11:44 AM RH  wrote:

> Esteemed Galooterati!
>
> The Archives provided great information about cleaning brass. I'm
> cleaning brass house numbers that mount on a plague.
>
> I first tried ketchup and was amazed at how much gunk it removed after
> sitting for an hour or two.  It didn't get it clean enough so I put
> tomato paste on it overnight.  This cleaned some more gunk but left a
> reddish tint that wouldn't wash off; so I reached for the brasso and an
> old toothbrush.  I think I'm getting close to where I want to be but the
> edges still have a lot of tarnish that is going to require that
> difficult compound . . .  elbow grease.
>
> When I get them cleaned to 'good enough', I think they will still need
> polishing.  After getting some shiny back, what would you recommend as a
> finish preserving coat.  I'm thinking an over-spray with clear lacquer
> is called for, but I read some negatives about using lacquer.  This is
> not something I'm likely ever to do again.  They have been up for at
> least 25 years.  If my rehab lasts that long I'll be long planted.
>
> Thanks for any input.
>
> Bob Hutchins
> Temple, TX (a Southwestern US State, Jeff)
>
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