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John Sabato · 02-21-2008, 01:41 PM

Brian, this is strictly my own opinion, but I am not in favor of leaving original cosmoline on antique metal surfaces UNLESS it is in some kind of sealed container. I think as the preservative ages, it will decompose eventually and become a wick to moisture. My personal recommendation is a complete, but gentle cleaning and then relubricating the items with modern rust preventive grease (Rig) or wax (museum wax) as a new start on their continued long term preservation and storage.

Some long time collectors might like to see that dried cosmoline, but I am not one of them.

02-21-2008, 01:41 PM	#2
John Sabato Lifer Lifetime Forum Patron Join Date: Jun 2002 Location: The Capital of the Free World Posts: 10,156 Thanks: 3,003 Thanked 2,308 Times in 1,098 Posts	Brian, this is strictly my own opinion, but I am not in favor of leaving original cosmoline on antique metal surfaces UNLESS it is in some kind of sealed container. I think as the preservative ages, it will decompose eventually and become a wick to moisture. My personal recommendation is a complete, but gentle cleaning and then relubricating the items with modern rust preventive grease (Rig) or wax (museum wax) as a new start on their continued long term preservation and storage. Some long time collectors might like to see that dried cosmoline, but I am not one of them. __________________ regards, -John S "...We hold these truths to be self-evident that ALL men are created EQUAL *and are endowed by their Creator* with certain UNALIENABLE* rights, and among these are life, LIBERTY, and the pursuit of happiness..."*