Cleaning new machine

[Christopher Kanda]

What is recommended to clean off the waxy oil that comes on the cast iron machine parts on new tools? I am buying a jointer and don't want to damage the surface. Thanks

[Jim Becker]

Cosmoline is generally removed using kerosene. I will typically use kero to loosen things up and a card scraper to get off any thick deposits after the kero works on them. Then some rags with the kero. Finally, it's cleaned with mineral spirits to take off any oily residue from the kero, etc. Be sure to dispose of any rags and towels correctly to avoid fire issues.

[Brent Smith]

Hi Christopher,

I use mineral spirits or kerosene, which ever is lying around at the time. Make sure you put something on to protect the CI after you get it cleaned up.