Table saw top

[NCmau]

I was wondering if anyone has solution to clean a stained table saw top. I am in the process of restoring an old Delta Unisaw. The project is just about completed but I would like to give the table top a better finish. The top is very smooth with no rust pits but there are several stains. I tried steel wool, 320 sand paper, vinegar and lacquer thinner. I can use it the way it is, of course, but I would like to know if there is a simple solution other than surface grinding.
 

[Piker]

I have refurbished 2 Unisaws, several jointers & my latest is a General 350 cabinet saw. Without surface grinding as you mentioned, there is no way to get the cast iron back to a "fresh from the factory" table. I smooth them up as well as I can using a random orbit sander (after scraping off accumulated crud) with WD-40 as a lubricant, then live with the "patina".
 

[Mr. T. Minnesota]

NCMau,
I have tried those you have mentioned on my Rigid cast top table saw. If you can find it, try a pumice block. It worked quite well on my saw and other cast top tools. Hope this helps!
Mr. T. Minnesota
 

[flembo]

I agree with piker and after you get it as best you can I would use butchers wax on it I use it on all my machine tables.
 

[Den N Ms]

You could use Evaporust or even some CLR Calcium Lime and Rust Remover HD.
Evaporust

 

[Colin King]

If it's just a surface rust, use steel wool and WD40 to clean the surface. When not in use, apply a coat of carpenter's wax, such as Johnson's, to the table. I also do this with my hand saws.

Colin, MN
 

[Curtsat15]

Would electrolysis not work? I would try that if I had a big enough kettle to put the table top in.
 

[Jimmyjack]

Works only on rust, not necessarily a stain.
 

[ScoutB]

I'm a big fan of this stuff. I've been using the T-9 for 10 years since my saw was new so I've had no need to try the Rust Free. If it works as well as the T-9 it's a winner.