Fork Tube Rust?

[plyzo]

So I have a 1970 Honda CL350 and took the forks apart and noticed there was a bit of surface rust and some pitting. Is there a way to get it all off, its mostly in the area where the headlight cover attachments are.

Not sure if its possibly to sand it with 800 grit and then polish it.

 

[Finnigan]

I had a similar problem with mine, I did the most damage with a rotary attachment and then used course sandpapaer. I ended up painting the top of my tubes to match my frame but i wanted it gone to prevent further damage and a nice smooth surface. If there is pitting on the chrome there isnt a way to shine them up unless you want to get them re-plated. I have some 360 tubes that are clean but I dont think they fit the 350...

 

[AlphaDogChoppers]

I clean up pitted fork tubes all the time. Never use anything coarser than 600 grit, or you will just ruin them.

I usually start with 800 grit, then 1000 grit, then polish them on a buffing wheel with emery. There will still be some pits, but they will be smooth enough that they won't tear up seals. Occasional cleaning with #0000 steel wool and chrome polish, followed by a coat of wax will keep them looking good.

If the rust is light, try #0000 steel wool and chrome polish first. It often does the job.

 

[noexit]

I use a wet stone to grind down the high spots.

 

[plyzo]

Thanks guys for the information. I am going to pick up some 800, 1000 and give it a shot.

Will post some pics of before and after.