I heard that electrolysis could be used for cleaning parts of rust and old paint. I thought I'd do a little science experiment and see how it goes. I watched a few YouTube videos, headed the warnings about heavy metals, and away I went.

 

Corvair Home Engine Shrouds    
Carbs! Generator rebuild Electrolysis for parts cleaning....the experiment Engine Pics

 

Electrolysis!
Anode is attached to the side of the "tank" by an old clamp. The part to be cleaned is suspended in the water/baking soda mixture.

The old battery charger that I've had for 15 years and never used until now. It has a 6 or 2 amp setting. I tend to use the 6.

Part to be cleaned is in the water with the negative lead attached. See the bubbles.

 

Before cleaning. The wires are there to suspend the part in the water during process.
After about 2 hours in the tank and with just a few minutes from a sander to break the loose stuff off.
The Corvair fan after being through the process. Not too bad, but took a decent amount of sanding.
The other side of the fan. You can tell it didn't get into the crevices and curved areas too well. I've been told electrolysis is "line of sight", and I think I'm starting to understand what that means. Still looks a lot better than original.