Featured Folding Wash Tub Stand Help Wax or Oil?

Hi,
I'm wondering how I can bring this back to life - would a wax or oil help? I don't want to cover up the letters on the front, not sure if waxing would remove them?
Also need help with how to undo the rusted screws - I've tried spraying with WD40 but the 2 rusted pieces don't want to loosen up but they are loose in the wood - any suggestions? They are used on the piece that holds the legs in place.
Any information appreciated.
Thanks for looking

 

My mother had one of these that was in almost mint condition (Same make as yours) Unfortunately, a house fire pretty ruined it.

IIRC Mom just put a coat of clear laquer on it.

Those are a stove bolts. You will need to stop the bolt from spinning and work on getting that wing nut loose.

 

thanks desperate! I've been trying to stop the bolt from spinning but it just isn't co-operating with me, lol. It really isn't a big deal I guess as this will just be sitting in place.
I'll see about getting some lacquer this afternoon.

 

You'll need a Vice-Grip and some penetrating oil....
nice little trolly !

 

thanks Komokwa! Normally I sell them but I'm keeping this one. Yes, a vice-grip would help, will have to get one.

 

Hi,
I would not lacquer but a good waxing job will do wonders.
greg

 

thank-you greg! Is there a difference between paste wax and liquid wax?

 

I have a few of these around myself, and will be curious to see what yours looks like with a finish. I'd try the various options on the underside first to see what looks/works the best. That rough surface will be hard to wax, I'm thinking. Tung oil might look OK.

That wingnut isn't really bad and I think it will turn. I'd vise-grip it as a last resort, since that will likely mark the head of the stove bolt. I use a little wire brush to really clean the threads next to the wingnut and then use a high-quality penetrant like Aero-Kroil. Give it an hour to work before trying to turn it.

Good luck and please show us your results!

 

Thanks steersman! Good idea to try on the underside first - I'm just heading out to the store now to see what I can find for this

 

This is pretty dry so I would oil first (coat til it won't take more). Afterwards, a coat of paste wax will add luster and protection.

 

IOW, start with the tung oil and go from there. I hope you really love this thing because this is going to take a while....

 

thanks Brad! Yes, it is very dry. The fellow at the hardware store suggested oil first also, so I have just used a bottle and a half of Old English furniture oil on it and will let it sit for a bit and then do some more. here is a photo of it now

 

No problem if it takes a while, it will be worth it to me I have a couple of suitcases that will look great on it.

 

I also found a date on it, looks like it say 1923

 

Vice grips or pliers to hold the bolt with one hand and tap the wing nut with a hammer to loosen it !! Treat with a rust remover and a good oil before replacing them !! Put a cloth over the bolt to prevent scratching it with the pliers !!