I just talked with Tech Support at Bessey.  His only idea was to take off the ratchet end and re-clean the bar.  No, they do not sell just the bar….
I took Comet cleanser AND scrubbing bubbles to the bar and cleaned with a soft brush.  Still no bite.  I had already tried acetone and alcohol (not the drinking kind, although that occurred to me – I’d drink it and clean with something else!).  The 4 clamps now reside in the trash.  I’ve ordered 10 more (glutton for punishment?) as they really are great light duty clamps.  I think I am at fault here… me and my OCD cleaning!
Thanks everyone for your suggestions. My best advice is not to believe everything you see on the internet… that’s where I got the idea to clean and wax them!
Ellen
Ellen