Rusty bolts on Ford 600

[moday]

I have our Ford 600 in pieces. The big pieces are painted and ready for re-assembly. What is the best way to clean and prep the 4 or 5 egg cartons of nuts, bolts and washers that I need to reassemble everything. I thought about using a bench grinder where I can to clean up the individual parts and then prime/paint a mess of fasteners. I'm concerned that the nuts, bolts and washers will get dinged up when tightening everything back together. Do most people touch up paint all the bolt heads after torqueing the fasteners back together? I'm happy with how the big parts look and I'd like to continue down that path or do some restorers just not worry about the fasteners? I understand that it's not a street rod, but I'd like to do what others have done in the past. I'm no expert at this but want to make it look nice.

Appreciate the feedback on this, thanks in advance, MODAY
 

[300jk]

I do the bench grinder with a wire wheel using vise grips or pliers when possible so I dont also remove my skin ! Ha ha ! I then assemble and touch up with a small brush. Years ago I remember seeing socket inserts which were made of plastic to protect the paint . Dont know if they were a gimmick or not. I never bought them !
 

[Stephen Newell]

Wouldn't be easier to use new bolts? They are also available in rust resistant materials which would put an end to the problem.
 

[WESnIL]

All new bolts, nuts, and washers is my first preference or here is what works for me: Clean with flap disc, bench grinder, sandblasting cabinet, etc. Place on a piece of cardboard and spray with aerosol can with primer. Allow to dry, then turnover and spray other side of bolts, nuts, etc. Using the same procedure repeat with two coats of primer and then two coats of finish paint of your choice or availability. I like Krylon 1403 but it is no longer available in my area. After installation spray a little of your finish paint in a cup and use a artist paint brush to touch up the bolt heads.
 

[showcrop]

I cleaned mine on a wire wheel, stuck them in holes in boxes and primed and painted as I was doing the the rest. Where they were noticeable I touched them up a little afterwards. I hate the look of the new bolts.



 

[moday]

Showcrop.your tractor looks great!
 

[showcrop]