2 questions: Copper boiler washing and trucks

[cp4449]

One more idea: has anyone used citric acid to clean a boiler?

[Bill Shields]

I have never had a problem with it on copper...not like a mirror finish is a concern....

I always remove all fittings from the boiler when cleaning it anyway -> so maybe brass is a concern.

[gwrdriver]

The first thing I do to clean a copper boiler is to fill it about half-full with a very strong solution of TSP (trisodium phosphate) and scalding water and let it soak. TSP is a common but very strong and concentrated detergent which you can get at paint and most hardware stores. The TSP will dissolve any oil and dirt which may have made their way into the boiler which will inhibit the action of an acid pickle. I slosh the solution around at intervals and eventually flush it out well and then proceed with the usual pickle. I do a final, very thorough washout with warm water with a tablespoon of baking soda dissolved in it. The baking soda will neutralize any traces of acid pickle left in the boiler.