Sandblasting removes the surface plating, so it is good if you are going to repaint.

I would think it depends on what you plan to do as a finish.

I would try the Evapo-rust stuff first. I also use good ol' elbow grease with steel wool. Followed up by a high quality chrome polish like Mother's or Magic Blue. Amazing how much surface rust will come off. If it's pitted, nothing will restore the finish and you may have to think about a paint of some form (or replacements).

I just came in from my garage where I am using some Evapo-Rust right now on a rusty motorcycle gas tank. The stuff works great for rust removal but I never use it on pinball legs. It would probably work though.

To prep old pinball legs for paint I usually use paint stripper to remove most of the paint and then blast the legs with aluminum oxide in a blast cabinet to remove any remaining paint and any surface rust.

After that, all that is required is to give the legs a wipe down with isopropyl alcohol and they are ready to paint.

Have you considered buying new stuff? Not something I would do if they aren't that bad but what if you put all the work into cleaning and they still look like shit?

Just a thought.

Chris Kruger

Soda blasting will leave the old plating (unless it's very corroded).

Siderails on X&O's and WW and Freddy should all be stainless steel.

You should be able to sand them if they are showing any signs of wear or rust and they will come out great. No need to replace or treat in any other fashion.

Mike O.

Bare metal legs? No wonder they are rusty.