Lime Deposits on Shrouds

[Stray]

While hauled out in a major shipyard here on Oahu, there was a ship spewing lime which coated our deck, rails and shrouds. I managed to get the rails and pulpits clean with lots of elbow grease but that's not practical to use on the shrouds. A friend suggested running a rag up and down them soaked with sulphoric or phosphoric acid after wetting down the deck with water to prevent any damage from drips. Does this sound like a feasible way to clean the shrouds? Any other suggestions?

 

[Ray]

Absolutly Not!

There is a product called "Lime Away" you can secure from the grocery or hardware store for just this problem. Vinegar water is another option. Acid used overhead is a very good way to burn or blind yourself or another.Also use gloves and goggles.