Re: who uses automatic transmission fluid as lubricant
ATF is high in detergent content, and is a key component in Ed's Red cleaning solvent. Even ATF can use a hand. Sea Foam makes an ATF additive which works to clean up internal AT solenoid contacts. Now <span style="font-style: italic">that's</span> what I'm talkin' about...
I occasionally encounter rust when I open the gun cabinet back up in the Spring. I know it's a no brainer to apply the oil, but any one of us can still find themselves in a similar fix.
My initial approach to removal involves ATF and Scotch Brite. Sometimes I will substitute PB Blaster.
The theory here is to use a penetrant to dislodge the accumulation from below, then use a nonabrasive medium to wipe it clean.
Once blueing is gone, the metal needs to be scrupulously cleared of any lingering oxidation, then reblued and reoiled. Acid (like CLR, Limeaway, or Naval Jelly) will wipe out blueing in a blink; but when hope is lost, it also does a good job on entrenched rust. If you want to go softly with acid, cola is a good mildly acidic cleaning agent. So are lemon juice and vinegar.
Parkerizing is useless without oil.
Greg