Cleaning Crankcases/Barrel/Head etc

[andy288]

Engine out of the Supa5, degreased etc but its still a bit oil stained & tarnished etc, the fins on the head are also quite oxidised with white powder pretty much all over.

So, shall I just clean em up best as possible or get em blasted?

Obviously the blasting is easier and provides far superior results but it on the downside it costs and it is an MZ after all is said and done!

My objective is to end up with a nice useable bike, clean and tidy but not overly 'blinged up and polished' as you sometimes see.

If I do go with the 'clean em up best as possible' route (which is most likely) whats the best/easiest method of doing this, particularly the fins on the head which are quite awkward in places to do?

Advice and comments gratefully received!

[therealche]

I wouldn't go with bead blasting, it just leaves an incredibly reactive surface that goes white and furry again quickly. I use Machine Marts Aluminium cleaner and some wire wool, of a selection of old tooth brushes, paint brushes etc, and those green nylon scrubby things for cleaning saucepans. Tight? Moi? Never!

[andy288]

Yeah, seems the way to go to me!

Had a quick 'test' this afternoon with a small brass rotary wire brush, ok if you don't apply too much pressure but still a little 'fierce'.

Also tried the toothbrush method with various cleaners I had available and green scourers too which I also had and worked ok to a point.

Gonna order some Ally Cleaner as you suggest and use a combination of all the above methods where appropriate I think!

[DAVID THOMPSON]

here in the usa i clean the bmw engine cases that are very nasty with a small brass brush
and a house hold cleaner called 409 and spray them down with water
works good does not seem to do long term damage to the engine
dave

NOTE pre 1980 bikes with cast cases

[CharlieCeng]

Cillit Bang!

[DAVID THOMPSON]

Cillit Bang! in the usa is known as "easy off" but may not be the same stuff .. because here its an oven cleaner
so test things on a small spot somewhere underneath the engine
or try it on an old case or part that is headed for the trash bin as its next stop

dave

[MichaelTorre]

Bar Keepers Friend, removes rust stains
and incredible filth.
M