Office of Steam Forum for Model & Toy Steam Gas & Hot Air Engines

Hey Guys,


Wondering if anyone knows the best tools and substances to use to clean up a dirty exterior of a  boiler for any nickel plated jensen boiler.     The fuel fired engines tend to get soot and tar built up on the bottoms and sides especially if using Ethyl alcohol or esbit tabs.   It is EXTREMELY difficult to clean with just a rough sponge and soap.   I have managed to do it but it takes probably an hour of scrubbing non stop to get it clean.

I tried Vinegar but that will actually eat at the Nickel polish.  Will nail polish remover work?  Will it damage it?    Anyone know the best substance to clean the outside of these boilers?  I will not use a wire brush as it will sratch and serrade the exterior.