Need suggestions on how to clean this belt plate

[sjvalleyhunter]

I recently found this belt plate and was able to clean it up fairly well compared to how it came out of the ground. However the remaining dirt is just about as hard as concrete and I’m having a lot of difficulty getting it off. Last night I soaked it in soapy water and then tried to use a toothpick to pick it off but all that happened is that the toothpicks broke while the dirt stayed. I’d like to clean it while maintaining the patina. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

 

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[Ammoman]

Well i can tell you what NOT to do. Don't take a grinder to it!

 

[Tpmetal]

Soak in distilled water, must be distilled. Change water and gently work with tooth pick daily

 

[sjvalleyhunter]

Soak in distilled water, must be distilled. Change water and gently work with tooth pick daily

I’ll try that. Thank you.

 

[Army]

Murat is acid works on calcium carbonate which is common on dirt. Can not remember it’s effect on the patina, you could try it in a little spot on the back to see how it works.

 

[sjvalleyhunter]

Murat is acid works on calcium carbonate which is common on dirt. Can not remember it’s effect on the patina, you could try it in a little spot on the back to see how it works.

Thank you for the suggestion. I’ll look into that.

 

[Davers]

I recently found this belt plate and was able to clean it up fairly well compared to how it came out of the ground. However the remaining dirt is just about as hard as concrete and I’m having a lot of difficulty getting it off. Last night I soaked it in soapy water and then tried to use a toothpick to pick it off but all that happened is that the toothpicks broke while the dirt stayed. I’d like to clean it while maintaining the patina. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
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How did this work out?

I'm surprised you did not get more help .

I'd "Try" to get the brown dirt off as much as possible , then coat with petroleum jelly (as Barphing stated 'on a Button' )
Maybe a good coating / let sit for a day or so then wipe clean with a cotton cloth.

I say this as the Damage / corrosion 'looks' to have eaten into the Brass & like on certain Coins once it does that there is not much help.

Actually coat with whatever you like cause IMHO , It will bring the design out.
GL

& If you can post a picture of it after further cleaning please let me know , 'PM' would be best ' thanks.