What about stamped block numbers?

[Boston14]

Late last year (2010),  I rebuilt the engine for my car (1969 RS/SS 350 Convt.).  The block had to be bored .030 over and I had it hot tanked as part of the clean up process.  I rebuilt it back stock.    When I painted the engine, I put a piece of masking tape over the numbers pad.  After painting,  I removed the tape and everything looked good.  I bagged the engine and there it has sat on the engine stand for about 6 months.  I am still restoring the rest of the car, but had to take the bag off the engine to bolt on my newly acquired and rebuilt starter (1108420).  After installing the starter and brace, I was looking over the engine and noticed the numbers pad was covered in rust.  The weather has been really damp and rainy here in Kentucky.   Now here's the question;  What can I use to clean off the surface rust, and what should I use to protect it from rusting again.  Thanks.

boston14

[IZRSSS]

Here is a product that might work. Take a look at the sequential test at the bottom of the page. You can also contact them to see what they recommend.

http://www.theruststore.com/Fluid-Film-8-oz-Brush-Can-P203C67.aspx

[firstgenaddict]

Use some safest rust remover then hit the pad with a thin coating of grease.

[IZRSSS]

Since the rust hasn't been on for too long, an inexpensive way would be...club soda. Apply & let sit for 5 minutes then wipe clean. If you have problems, repeat and finish off with a stiff brush or steel wool.

[restore-z28]

Hey Marty, someone told me the club soda trick a few years ago for removing mild surface rust. I have never tired it myself, I always thought he was yanking my chain but I'm guessing it must really work. 

[IZRSSS]

I confess...neither have I. I googled home made rust removers and it showed up several times. It makes perfect sense though...the acid. Actually just about any soft drink would work as long as it hasn't been left open for an extended period of time. White vinegar was also mentioned several times.

[tmodel66]

What about naval jelly and some 4 aught steel wool

[maroman]

White vinegar works too. May have to wet a rag and let it sit a while, will NOT hurt good metal.

[IZRSSS]

Good info...thanks Doug.

Curious...after all this discussion, I take it the engine stamp was left unpainted from the factory?

[Boston14]

Thanks for the replies guys, I will clean up and grease the pad  it this weekend.  I should have known to protect it to begin with ............... another senior moment I guess ..................  Thanks again.

boston14

[JohnZ]

What about naval jelly and some 4 aught steel wool

I wouldn't use ANYTHING that's abrasive; preserving the nuances of the pad surface is important.

[JohnZ]

Curious...after all this discussion, I take it the engine stamp was left unpainted from the factory?

Yes, it was - it was covered with a piece of masking tape during engine painting.

[IZRSSS]

Thank you John

[ChrisM]

This is sort of expensive, but it works as good as the website says.  I have used it before with incredible results.
http://www.rusteco.com/

 I'd use the gel on a stamp pad.  It won't harm metal or paint.

And no I do not have any connection or financial interest with the company or its owners.