Started cleanup...

Did a little bit of work on the clock today.  I started by correcting a minor problem with one of the end tabs.  That involved just a few hammer swings.  Next, I started to work on the cleanup of the clock.  At this stage, it mainly involves removing any left over scale.  This is more difficult then I expected. 

I had to use one of the more aggressive wire wheels to get the scale to even budge.  It is making a big difference but it is taking time.  I got about 25% of the frame cleaned up before I came in.  I did coat the newly cleaned up metal with some oil to prevent rusting until I'm ready to apply the finish.

Now, an important safety tip.  I am doing something which I really don't want to do.  That is, I am using wire wheels with an angle grinder.  The wire wheels, no matter their quality, will shoot off bits of metal from the piece and occasionally they also throw a wire.  When using these, proper protection is a must.  Full face shield, gloves, leather apron, heavy clothing, etc...  Let me tell you why.

While cleaning up part of the clock, I temporarily lost control of the grinder.  It jerked out of my hands and the wire wheel hit my apron.  It tore up the surface of the apron pretty good.  I couldn't help but think of what things would have been if I had just been wearing a T-shirt.

So, if you do ever use a wire wheel at high speed, protect yourself.