Restoring an old hand plane

[Glenn Howard]

Last weekend I picked up an old Stanley No. 9 1/2 block plane for $2.00. It was in decent shape and at the time, I bought it only because for $2.00, I figured I could put it to some use.

After doing a little research, it appears to have some vintage value, so I wanted to do some minor restoration. What should I use for general cleaning to avoid damaging or removing the jappanning? Most of it appears intact, so I don't want to risk removing any of it.

Any help?

[Johnny Kleso]

Unless its 120+ years old its really pretty common and no need to really worry about collector value unless its mint and in the box IMHO

You can use Mineral Sprits to clen the plane and lap the sloe and cheeks on some fine sand paper on a flat surface..... Scotch Brite pad is also good for cleaning small metal parts...