cleaning a key

[Julius Fazekas n2wn]

Hi,
there are several products that will work. As I
recall, all of the military keys were silver coated
(tending to oxidize black). A dilute solution of
ammonia in water will clean most of the oxidation. You
can also use a toothbrush and baking soda.
There is another product called "simichrome" that is a
good polish, also useful on plastics. Silver tarnish
cleaners are also usable.
If you are attempting to keep this in "collectable"
condition stick with the ammonia and simichrome.
Make sure you clean, flush and dry the contacts real
well, any buildup in these two spots will cause
irratic operation.
Hope this helps.
Julius
n2wn
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[Ron D'Eau Claire-2]

Julius, N2WN wrote:
As I
recall, all of the military keys were silver coated
(tending to oxidize black).

-----------------------

My WWII Vintage J-38 has a main frame piece made of a silver metal that I
haven't identified, a rocker arm that is nickel-plated copper, and all brass
thumb screws, pivots, shorting arm and plate leading from the bottom contact
to the hot terminal.

It was my understanding that there was quite a variety of metals and
platings used, based on what was available during the war.

Mine was in fair condition when I got it. It had obviously been stored for a
number of years, but wasn't damaged. I have an ultrasonic cleaner that did a
bang-up job on it.

Ron AC7AC



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