cleaning/restoring aluminum

[tom coffey]

I have not yet found a method of thourougly cleaning & restoring aluminum tools and tool parts, like the handle on a saw I picked up today. Blasting, whether sand or glass, doesn't leave the right surface texture nor does abrasive cleaning such as wire brushing or sanding. I can't figure how to get the texture and finish like a non-polished tool originally had. Any suggestions?

 

[Boogerman]

Maroon scotchbrite isn't bad. pay attention to which direction you're moving it, don't scrub randomly or in circles. I did two items in the past week that way, both came out acceptable. Wasn't trying for a show piece, just look good.

 

[mepstein]

We vapor blast everything in house. Makes it look like new.

 

[four.cycle]

tomato juice

 

[RTM]

I use Simichrome for metal polish, folded paper towel or blue shop towels to get into corners.

 

[four.cycle]

^ Cast aluminum intake manifolds, plenums, and timing covers don't lend themselves well to "polish", and they look like dogshit when you take a wire wheel to them. Tomato juice will clean it up - sure works wonders on aluminum cookware.

 

[Toold_up]

^ Cast aluminum intake manifolds, plenums, and timing covers don't lend themselves well to "polish", and they look like dogshit when you take a wire wheel to them. Tomato juice will clean it up - sure works wonders on aluminum cookware.

That chili looks good!

 

[four.cycle]

^ this batch turned out pretty good... I used some dried peppers this time... have to experiment with some other varieties next time around.

 

[Toold_up]

^ this batch turned out pretty good... I used some dried peppers this time... have to experiment with some other varieties next time around.

Nice Suomi mug!