Cleaning and sterilizing a pipe with metal elements

[r719]

Hey guys,
total pipe-cleaning newbie here. Recently I bought a second-hand Schowa pipe

(see the pictures here https://www.dropbox.com/sh/id3ikzocvfr00cc/AADHIMPJd6oQp_C336tk1QuYa?dl=0 ). I'd like to clean and sterilize it before smoking. I have seen a great many advice on this topic reading these forums, from youtube videos etc. Still not sure about couple of things - would be great to have some input:
1) I have seen that many recommend oxy clean or bleach treatment for oxidized stems - from the looks of mine I don't see heavy oxidation. Do you agree? And would alcohol-only (I have 95% ethanol) treatment really sterilize the stem?
2) As seen from the pictures the pipe has metal parts on the end of the stem and shank, and also a metal lid. That would probably make some forms of the cleaning, like bleach, impossible. Any thoughts on this? Also how to clean the lid - looks a bit rusty as well.
By the way, anyone has any idea about the age of this pipe ? The best clue that I could find is that the factory closed down in 1988.
Thanks alot!

 

[ejames]

Alcohol will work just fine to clean and sanitize that stem. Use a Magic eraser to remove oxidation on the outside. Do not use any sort of abrasive on that tenon or you may end up with a loose stem. Some fine steel wool may clean up the cap.

I wouldn't soak it in anything,but,if you do, cover all metal parts with a heavy coat of Vaseline.

 

[shawnofthedead]

I use Dunhill stem polish on oxidised stem, it takes a little more time and work to get rid of oxidation completely, but at least it's the safest method.

 

[r719]

thanks for the great tips! what about how to clean the back of the lid ?

 

[ejames]

Steel wool.