Need some engine cleaning tips
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Intermediate
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 46
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From: Hampstead NC
Need some engine cleaning tips
While I am breaking down my 89 engine to replace the intake manifold gaskets I thought it would be great time for some much needed cleaning. I tested an aluminum cleaner called "Sharkhide" on the Distributor cover and it turned it very dark gray. I suppose the acid reacted with the casting mixture. You can see the results in the picture I have included.
I am looking to brighten and clean
In any case I am looking for suggestions on the best way and products to use to clean all of the upper engine components from the Intake manifold to the Plenum. I am thinking Simple Green, Scotch bright pads and some type of polish. Please let me know what has worked best for you,
Thanks Thom
I am looking to brighten and clean
In any case I am looking for suggestions on the best way and products to use to clean all of the upper engine components from the Intake manifold to the Plenum. I am thinking Simple Green, Scotch bright pads and some type of polish. Please let me know what has worked best for you,
Thanks Thom
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Joined: Mar 2013
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From: Indiana
I use Sonus products on my aluminum. They sell a polish and a sealant that work well. For heavy corrosion I use Mothers Aluminum Mag Wheel paste. For cleaning matte finished parts I have had good results with baking soda blasting. You can buy a simple hand held blaster quite cheaply and baking soda can be found in most stores. You might have better luck powder coating those parts. They will be easier to clean and stay that way longer.
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Joined: Aug 2000
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i'm repairing the same manifold leak on my 90 (along with my VC gaskets). while I have everything apart, i'll be doing a cleaning and detailing of just about everything and anything accessible. I'll be (glass) bead blasting most of the aluminum components and applying a solution of PPG chem film, DX501. I used this in the past with excellent results. leaves the factory original look...
http://www.bapspaint.com/docs/psheet...tron/P-226.pdf
http://www.bapspaint.com/docs/psheet...tron/P-226.pdf
Last edited by Joe C; Nov 27, 2013 at 09:11 PM.
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 46
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From: Hampstead NC
Thanks! follow up question
I tried soda blasting with an old sandblasting gun I had and it worked really well! It brightened the cover right up and was very easy to do. I probably need a smaller nozzle for it since the soda is so much finer. But at least I know how to proceed. Since I have the cleaner I will use it to get the surfaces clean, then soda blast and finally seal. The DX501 sounds interesting as a lot of sealants seem to leave the metal with a white look.
Another quick question is the intake manifold also made of aluminum? Just wondering if this same process will work for it.
Thanks again and Happy Thanksgiving!
Thom
Another quick question is the intake manifold also made of aluminum? Just wondering if this same process will work for it.
Thanks again and Happy Thanksgiving!
Thom
Race Director
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 11,470
Likes: 763
I tried soda blasting with an old sandblasting gun I had and it worked really well! It brightened the cover right up and was very easy to do. I probably need a smaller nozzle for it since the soda is so much finer. But at least I know how to proceed. Since I have the cleaner I will use it to get the surfaces clean, then soda blast and finally seal. The DX501 sounds interesting as a lot of sealants seem to leave the metal with a white look.
Another quick question is the intake manifold also made of aluminum? Just wondering if this same process will work for it.
Thanks again and Happy Thanksgiving!
Thom
Another quick question is the intake manifold also made of aluminum? Just wondering if this same process will work for it.
Thanks again and Happy Thanksgiving!
Thom
I will be using PPG chem film products on most of the aluminum. here's a shot of my 85 -
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 46
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From: Hampstead NC
Joe
Thanks for the info your 85 looks great
hope mine turns out as good.
I travel a lot for work so my rebuild will probably take 2-3 months! But I will have it ready for the spring driving season.
What do you use to dress the hoses? I like that deep black shiny look. I tried various hose dressings but they don't look like yours even when freshly applied
Thom
Thanks for the info your 85 looks great
hope mine turns out as good.I travel a lot for work so my rebuild will probably take 2-3 months! But I will have it ready for the spring driving season.
What do you use to dress the hoses? I like that deep black shiny look. I tried various hose dressings but they don't look like yours even when freshly applied
Thom
