Long term storage

[otis04]

I may be moving for about 2-1/2 years and will not move my stationary tools.  I am considering selling the tools (I have been thinking about upgrading some of the anyway, so a fresh start when we get back), but am also thinking of storage in the walkout basement of my house.  I have no moisture issues but there is, of course, high humidity in the summer.
Question, how would I go about preserving the tops of my cast iron tools?  Is it as simple as oil, or something else?

 

[sae]

Silica gel packets work well for enclosed spaces like Systainers. You can grab a while bunch on eBay for cheap. If you have a large stationary items though, I'm not sure what's a great way to keep that dry. Oil will help, but it's difficult to reach all unpainted surfaces.

 

[wow]

I don't think it ill last THAT long, but take a look at 'Damp-Rid'. It does an AMAZING job of pulling moisture out of the air.

Maybe you could get someone to change out the buckets every 3-4 months for you?

 

[SittingElf]

I've tried a number of methods for my cast iron machines.

What has worked best so far is as follows:

1. Clean all surfaces and remove any light surface rust. (Scotch pads work great for very minor surface rust)
2. Apply at least 3 coats of Johnson's Paste Wax, buffing well between coats. (I use six coats)
3. For long term storage, I follow with a generous spray of Boeshield T-9, and do not buff it off.
4. I cover my machines with shipping blankets

This has worked very well for me.  I live in Coastal Florida and protecting my many cast iron surfaces is critical.
If anyone has come up with a better way...please post!

Cheers,

Frank

 

[Kev]

Read this:

http://www.carbatec.com.au/Protecting-Your-Assets