As you may remember from my Lynx restoration thread, I used molasses a heck of a lot to clean almost every small part. I use a 10 to 1 mix and find that it does work faster in the warmer months.
Some of the many small bits that make up a Lynx after they have been in the solution and wire brushed after being pressure washed.
I am lead to believe that there is no acid working to remove rust but an ALGAE which feeds on the oxygen in the rust. Rust being
iron oxide (Fe2 O3). All you are left with is the iron as a black fine mix on the bottom of the solution. That is why it is safe to get on your skin and to dispose of on the grass without hurting the environment.
Regards Rick