cleaning oxidation on engine

[sdc1992]

Hello. I'm working on getting a 1974 GT380 back on the road. The bike has been sitting in my parents basement for 34 years. I've done the work and spent the money and now she's running pretty well on new points, new nylon gear, new plugs and a carb rebuild kits. I have the new rubber intake boots to put on next and just ordered the air filters from bikebandit. My question is this. What's the best way to remove the oxidation and grime from the engine? I've seen commercial products from boating websites that claim to remove oxidation from aluminum but I don't want to waste my money on something that wont work. Thanks for any help with this

Scott

[MikeG]

If it's rough cast aluminum, Eagle1 brand "etching mag wheel cleaner" works great. It has a little hydroflouric acid in it, so be careful not to breathe it and use chemical resistant gloves. I spray it on and scrub it in with a stiff-bristled brush, reapplying as necessary to avoid it drying until it's all clean, then rinse the heck out of it with water. After it's dry I spray a little light oil all over it and let it penetrate the surface, this helps to keep it from staining.

[rngdng]

I start with plain old vinegar to knock of the fuzzy oxidation. Various grades of emery cloth and sandpaper followed by polishing compounds. It's a big job which can be spaced out as you have time.



Lane