Yay for Ebay!

[jons1077]

I got this really cool V-14 bakelite ramp activator for only about $7! It was COMPLETELY coated with a thick layer of hard water deposits however. I took two days and about 6 gallons of vinegar to get it all smooth and clean. This will be a great piece for my V-16 GE. By the way, how do you guys get your bakelite so dark and shiny?

 

[gansky1]

Secret Agitator Restoration Tips? A bunch of crap, it's no secret - that's why we have a message board, so all can learn!

Simply use clear polyurethane varnish in a spray can over a clean agitator. It may not last forever - but it does look pretty.

Congrats on the agitator - keep an eye out for the mini-basket and filter pans too, they turn up from time to time on ebay.

 

[gyrafoam]

Call me and I'll tell 'ya how to do it.

 

[pdub]

Congrats

YAY Jon!!! Another toy for you. Looks like some splashy fun ahead.

Patrick

 

[jons1077]

pdub

You bet! Wanna help me work on the GE? I have quite a few parts headed that way...a new tranny, boot, belt, etc. Will have it all spiffy and running like a champ!

 

[pdub]

Can't wait...

to see what all you've acquired. It will be fun to get that machine looking and running new again.

Looking forward to seeing you.

 

[mickeyd]

Hi Buddy

Steve told me the secret last year, but I'll let him have the fun telling you when you call him.

Thanks for the email--talk to you soon.

 

[Brent-Aucoin]

Very cool find!
Also very cool way to make them look like new! I had no idea that is how you guys get the Bakelite to look new!
Here is a link to eBay. A mini basket & filter flow that would fit your agitator, and only $6 bucks, "Buy it Now". It is a little dirty, but I am sure that there is a trick to get it all clean.
Brent

http://cgi.ebay.com/GE-HOTPOINT-WAS...eZWD1VQQtrksidZp1638.m118.l1247QQcmdZViewItem

 

[jons1077]

Brent

Thanks for the heads-up on the basket. I did notice that a few days ago. Only problem is that the mini-basket on ebay is for the newer ramp activators. The bakelite one I have has a wider cap so probably wouldn't work. I'm sure if a filter-flo pan and mini-basket for this agitator DO show up they will go for alot of money.

One day...

hehe

Jon

 

[tomturbomatic]

I read that Brasso made Bakelite dark and shiny, at least for Revere Ware handles and knobs. I thought it sounded crazy too, but was told it works. I do not have any Brasso right now so I cannot swear that this works.

 

[mickeyd]

Greg, that's a little harsh, and shocking

Haven't uttered a mean syllable to you in the two years I've been here.

I didn't want to steal Steve's chance to hear from Jon or to get it wrong because he's such a joy to talk. to

I've asked repeatedly where I might buy a box of Dash and never get an answer--so much for the bunch of crap!

And for the record, I already gave Jon the spiral mini-basket, as posted on these boards.

If your intent was to hurt, you succeeded.

 

[gansky1]

No, no, no...

You have it all wrong! My comment wasn't aimed at you or anyone in particular and was certainly not meant to be harsh. I thought the whole thing was rather comical. We all come together to share our knowledge and restoration/repair tips and wouldn't keep a good tip a secret from another person. As far as your box of Dash, many of us have found them on ebay or at local estate sales - they are as rare as hen's teeth.
Please, in the future, if you have a question about something I've said on one of these forums, please email me privately. I'm sorry if you felt my comments were directed at you, but there is no reason to subject everyone to a clarification and/or a reprimand.

 

[jons1077]

and...

one more clarification. I only have the V-16 straight-vane that you sent me Mike. Would be really cool to find the V-14 spiral one too but not a big deal. I love the basket you sent me though! Thanks again!

Jon

 

[mickeyd]

Sorry, Greg

I thought you were dissing me
I apologize for the misreading and the hypersensitivity
I have never doubted you before
I don't know what came over me
Please forgive me
I need a frontal-lobotomy

 

[gansky1]

Sometimes it happens on the 'internets'

Oh now, surgery isn't necessary - unless it's on an appliance for the benefit of another of your videos ;-)

 

[mickeyd]

Thanks, George

spent the last half hour finding you a freeze-dried sheet; go see.

 

[danemodsandy]

tomturbomatic:

I was the one who shared the Brasso trick for Bakelite. It really does work, but it really does take a lot of elbow grease. I find it pretty arduous to shine up the handle on a piece of cookware with Brasso- I don't think I'd want to tackle an entire vintage agitator with it. It would be doable, but MAN, would you be tired when you were through!