The story of how a quick doer-upper turned into a full nut and bolt restoration.
Why have one problem when you can have twelve?!
Me, https://hjwwalters.com/electric-wheelbarrow
Background
Originally seen on eBay as yet another spares/repairs project to add to the list.
The previous owner reported that it was originally purchased in December 2020, but recently it would keep cutting out after a short amount of time.
After returning home with it, I was able to get the engine started and managed half a lap of the garden before it cut out – the plume of white smoke gave a good indication that the culprit was simply an incorrect fuel:oil mix.
Brilliant – just needs the fuel tank drained, carb cleaned, probably a new spark plug and it will be as good as new!
The Plot Thickens
Works began with dismantling the quad to get access to the carburettor and it became quickly evident that it had been left outside for some time.
Bugger. Looks like this isn’t going to be a quick job.
Get the Vinegar Out!
Distilled white vinegar contains about 5% acetic acid. This acid reacts with the iron oxide (rust) to form iron acetate which is an orange coloured soluble salt that can be washed away with water.
The process is simple; submerge the rusted items in vinegar, wait about 24 hours for the reaction to occur and then clean off remaining rust with a wire brush.
After the rust has been brushed loose, thoroughly clean the item with water before drying as best as possible. To finish, coat the item fully with WD40 to protect against any future corrosion.
NOTE: Wear eye protection to protect against spraying acid in your eyes. Also wear rubber gloves as the iron acetate will stain and your hands will make them smell like a rundown chip shop.
Change of Plan
In short: I’ve fucked off the petrol engine and started to install the motor from the mobility scooter project