White metal kits parts have turned black. Problem?

[mm70882013]

Hello,

I recently acquired some Michael Roberts Ltd American Civil War kits for which I have been hunting.

They are new old stock condition. The kits are cast in resin with white metal weapons and accouterments.

The white metal parts have turned black, almost as if tarnished. This is easily removed. There is no other damage… no pitting… just a coating of black.

My questions are:

1. Do these parts need to be treated with anything prior to priming/painting?
2. Why have these parts turned black? I’ve never seen this before, and I have much older metal kits.
3. Of the three MR kits I bought, all three are affected. Is this something particular to his metal castings?
4. I’ve heard of, but never seen, “lead disease.” Is this the start of lead disease?
5. If lead disease, I think I read that immersion in vinegar for several hours will stop it?

Any help appreciated.

 

[kevininpdx]

Lead disease involves pitting so probably not. It could be after an acetone wash to strip the paint. That’s what I use and it turns the metal almost black. The metal is still good though. Maybe post a picture. I’m curious how black is black.

 

[Blind Pew]

When I've encountered lead disease (or what I thought was lead disease) it was akin to a crusty salt-like layer that appeared on the metal surface. The metal parts might have been soaked in something to remove paint, etc. and that might not have been totally rinsed off itself. Perhaps it's residue from this.

 

[Tecumsea]

Lead disease is very obvious, I have experienced it on David Grieve Kits. It leads to a powdering and pitting on the metal which is hard to rectify. If the black you are experiencing will be easily removed with a wire brush then after priming the kits should be fine.

Keith

 

[mm70882013]

Thanks for the help so far. I should have included a photo in the first post.

I do want to say thanks to the member who sent me the procedure to treat/cure lead disease. Much appreciated.

Here is the photo. I do want to note that the kit was new and not opened, so no strippers or solvents were used on this.