Treating/cleaning Metal Car Parts To Make Into Paper Weights

[Atari Boy 11]

A recent thread on electroplating by Tom has got me thinking.

 

I have a few bits of engine components on my desk that I use as paper weights.

They are just bare metal and whilst clean, the finish is not perfect.

My first thought was to get them zinc electroplated to tidy them up but I think they would then look too contrived.

 

What I am asking is what can I use to get them nice and naturally shiney and stay clean?

If I get them acid dipped will they start rusting shortly afterwards and if so, what could I use to stop this?

Alternativly, would sticking them in some vinegar clean them up and as long as they are desk bound they will remain clean?

 

Many thanks, I know I need to get out more.

[Tom Fenton 1,548]

Clear lacquer will keep them looking smart.

[Atari Boy 11]

Thanks Tom, I was thinking lacquer.

Where can I get some dipping acid from I wonder?

[damien 22 1 Cars]

ive got some old pistons/turbos as paperweights, i left them in vinager for afew days then stuck them in the dishwasher.

never gone rusty or anything like that

[JRL 14 1 Cars]

Oven cleaner! home pride is strongest mr muscles works also, leave it on for an hour or longer then scrub the grease off. Then boil in an old pan. my dad used to clean old carburettors like this and they came up great.

[Cameron 16]

I've got a Yamaha R6 piston and a padlock ground off a wheel clamp as my amusing paperweights.

[allanallen 528 2 Cars]

Unfortunatley I don't have any papers to necessitate a cool paper weight

[CosKev 16]

ive got some old pistons/turbos as paperweights, i left them in vinager for afew days then stuck them in the dishwasher.

never gone rusty or anything like that

 

Thats prob cause they are alloy!!!!!