OT Rusted soldering iron tip removal (Rusty break-up)

[pcm81]

I am trying to restore American Beauty 550W soldering iron. The hotend is rusted into the heating element. I drilled out the set screws holding it in. Still very stuck. I have new hot end so the one in there is a throw away if i can get it out. Would penetrating oil be my best option or is there something else i should also try? Drilling it out would the the last resort, given that it is 1 and 1/8 inch wide. It does get hot, but still does not budge. Based on exposed section of the hot end it is all copper, so either the iron plating wore out or it is straight up copper that rusted to iron jacket of the heating element.

Any suggestions on how to dislodge it?
Yeah i know i can buy one in way better shape for around $150-$200, not the point... This is a restoration project for fun.

 

[4GSR]

You better change your title to something related to what you are talking about or it will get locked up forever! Better put OT- at the front, too.

 

[4GSR]

Much better!
Thank you,

 

[Bill D]

I would soak it in EDTA overnight to get rid of the rust then try oils.
Bill D

 

[pcm81]

Had it in EDTA for 24hr. that is what i started with. Still stuck. Even put it into vacuum chamber overnight to force edta into pores. No love.