Stubborn red tint on vintage Wagner skillets

[gentleGIANT]

I have been working on a Wagner 1088 skillet that just refuses to stay clean despite my best efforts with lye baths and electrolysis. Every time I think I have it cleared and apply a layer of lard, my paper towel comes back red as if the rust is still hiding in the pores of the metal. I am beginning to think this might not be standard surface rust but rather deep heat damage from a past fire or an overactive self cleaning oven cycle. This kind of damage actually changes the iron itself and can make it nearly impossible for a new layer of seasoning to stick properly. I am considering using a media blaster with walnut shells or glass beads to see if a mechanical strip works better than the tanks. But I also want to know if anyone has had success just seasoning right over this pinkish tint until the layers finally turn black.

 

[aswan4487]

You should use a high smoke point oil like grapeseed or Crisco for the first few layers because lard can sometimes be less stable on damaged iron.

 

[trigger02]

I have been working on a Wagner 1088 skillet that just refuses to stay clean despite my best efforts with lye baths and electrolysis. Every time I think I have it cleared and apply a layer of lard, my paper towel comes back red as if the rust is still hiding in the pores of the metal. I am beginning to think this might not be standard surface rust but rather deep heat damage from a past fire or an overactive self cleaning oven cycle. This kind of damage actually changes the iron itself and can make it nearly impossible for a new layer of seasoning to stick properly. I am considering using a media blaster with walnut shells or glass beads to see if a mechanical strip works better than the tanks. But I also want to know if anyone has had success just seasoning right over this pinkish tint until the layers finally turn black.

It is a good idea to avoid sandblasting if you can because it often leaves a rough profile that ruins the smooth factory finish of a vintage Wagner.

 

[hopelessguy01]

Does the red color wipe off easily when the pan is dry or does it only show up once you add the moisture of the oil?

 

[tiptiptoe]

@gentleGIANT Have you tried a short thirty minute soak in a half vinegar and half water mix to see if that breaks up the specific type of oxide causing the red tint?

 

[Alan]

I have been working on a Wagner 1088 skillet that just refuses to stay clean despite my best efforts with lye baths and electrolysis. Every time I think I have it cleared and apply a layer of lard, my paper towel comes back red as if the rust is still hiding in the pores of the metal. I am beginning to think this might not be standard surface rust but rather deep heat damage from a past fire or an overactive self cleaning oven cycle. This kind of damage actually changes the iron itself and can make it nearly impossible for a new layer of seasoning to stick properly. I am considering using a media blaster with walnut shells or glass beads to see if a mechanical strip works better than the tanks. But I also want to know if anyone has had success just seasoning right over this pinkish tint until the layers finally turn black.

Looks like a sign of permanent heat damage. Have you heard of 'fire scale' I've heard some success in applying multiple very thin layers of high smoke point oil like Grapeseed and simply cooking through the tint until the carbon buildup eventually masks the discoloration. Might want to try that.

 

[black clover]

Did you use a stainless steel or a brass brush to scrub the skillet after your last electrolysis session?

 

[BigBob75]

Hate to say it but maybe this would only make a nice wall hanger decoration! There ARE other cast iron skillets out there to use. Good luck. God Bless. Bob

 

[BigBob75]

DON'T SANDBLAST THE OLD WAY WITH SAND OR GLASS BEADS AND HIGH PRESSURE AIR! THERE IS A NEWER BLAST TECHNIQUE OUT THERE THAT CAN BE USED. IT'S PRIMARILY USED ON ANTIQUE CARS SO AS NOT TO WARP OR DAMAGE FRAGILE AUTO SHEET METAL. GOD BLESS. Bob

 

[gentleGIANT]

Thank guys! I tried your suggestion but nothing is working. I guess this Wagner skillet will be a new add-on to my home decor. I still have other cast iron skillets.

 

[Goldenat0r0012]

Thank guys! I tried your suggestion but nothing is working. I guess this Wagner skillet will be a new add-on to my home decor. I still have other cast iron skillets.

You can still try drying the skillet in a warm oven for ten minutes. Then apply a grapeseed oil to ensure all moisture is gone.

 

[Alan]

DON'T SANDBLAST THE OLD WAY WITH SAND OR GLASS BEADS AND HIGH PRESSURE AIR! THERE IS A NEWER BLAST TECHNIQUE OUT THERE THAT CAN BE USED. IT'S PRIMARILY USED ON ANTIQUE CARS SO AS NOT TO WARP OR DAMAGE FRAGILE AUTO SHEET METAL. GOD BLESS. Bob

Yes, old techniques may no longer be applicable with newer CIs.