Re: [CR]Aluminium Alloy cleaning

(Example: Framebuilders:Norman Taylor)

Date: Tue, 29 May 2001 08:43:10 -0700
From: "Marc Boral" <mbikealive@earthlink.net>
Cc: Classicrendezvous@bikelist.org
Subject: Re: [CR]Aluminium Alloy cleaning
References: <B739356E.6B35%bob.reid@btconnect.com>


Bob,

I mirror polish aluminum, so I have some experience in making aluminum look good. I do not know of any product that will do what you seek. If you find something, let me know. Once oxidation is evident, you can clean it up either mechanically or chemically. The chemical method (very caustic stuff) will result in a very, very dull finish. Really, the only way that is aesthetically acceptable is to use the mechanical method (by hand or machine) using a polishing compound. Kerosene is a good degreasing product, and will not harm aluminum, but will do nothing in terms of improving the finish. Do not use household degreasers (409, Fantastic, etc.) for aluminum, no matter if the alum. is anodized or not. Many of those household products will stain aluminum.

Marc Boral

Bob Reid wrote:
> This has probably been covered in the past, but apart from proprietary
> "auto" alloy wheel cleaning fluids, does anyone have an effective alloy
> cleaner/degreaser mix that restores plain non-anodized aluminium alloy
> components to the orginal factory (non-bright) finish ?.
>
> I'm looking for something that's as effective on alloy as water/vinegar/salt
> is on brass/copper - without the need to resort to polishing.
>
> Bob Reid
> Stonehaven
> Scotland
>
> http://freespace.virgin.net/bob.reid1/index.htm (mapped)