Restoring Rayo
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Restoring
by Vicki (vlwrfw@epix.net)
Posted: August 17, 1998 @ 09:35.
I've recenty been given an old Rayo lamp that used to belong to my
husbands' grandmother. I know this was a common lamp and all I have
is the base but I'd like to restore it for use. The problem is it was
kept up in an attic for about 20 years and is heavily corroded. How
do I go about restoring it to its'shiny nickel finish without harming
the lamp? Thank you for any advice or help you can
offer!
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On August 17, 1998 @ 12:07, Fil Graff, Guild Secretary (fgraff@comcast.net) wrote:
Vicki: If you have some metal polish (like Brasso, which I don't
particularly like because it dries white in crevases, etc.), pick an
area of the font and gently polish away with a soft rag. Stay away
from the harsher cleaners with abrasives. The finish on the lamp may
well be pretty spotty from years of use; that almost comes with the
territory!
Restoring the lamp to burning condition is possible,
and encouraged! The Rayo wasn't a particularly sterling performer
from the git-go; they were cheap, and readily available, so there are
lots of them. But as you have a family heirloom, burn it! Wicks are
available, as are chimneys. I'd recommend a thorough interior
soaking/cleaning before filling with kerosene, and using a new wick
(unless there is plenty of old wick left, and it isn't all brown and
hard to the touch). Let nme know how it comes out!
:: Fil ::