Clean Oxidation from cast aluminum

[JimLaney]

Don't think taking my transmission apart to get it into the blast cabinet is worth it so how can I clean the white crystalline oxidation off of the bell housing?

 

[DavidApp]

Hello Jim

Wire wheel or scot brite disc?

David

https://www.3m.com/3M/en_US/scotch-brite-industrial-us/

 

[dklawson]

Google for "Aluminum Jelly". If you use it with a combination of Scotchbrite pads and small wire brushes you'll be able to clean a lot of the casting. The only trick/caveat is that you will need to rinse and dry the casting quickly when done to prevent the formation of dark grey patches.

Also, Google for threads on polishing aluminum. I believe the Airstream trailer websites are a good source for that information.

 

[JimLaney]

Tried wire wheel on drill motor. Stiff twisted wire wheel was too rough on aluminum casting but fine wire wheel cleaned beautifully. Got some smaller wire wheels that fit my die grinder and I'll try them in tight places next. Thanks for your help!

 

[Grantura_MKI]

I would use what commercial trucks use for fuel tanks, etc.
if you put anything in a blasting cabinet, it needs to be hot tank after to remove any contamination.

 

[PAUL161]

I use Walnut shells in the blasting cabinet on Aluminum castings and get excellent results, lower air pressure for delicate items. I wash the part with a citrus cleaner, such as Purple Power, if there is any evidence of oil on the surface before putting it in the cabinet, never after. PJ

 

[JimLaney]

Cleaned up the transmission case, R&R throw out bearing, lever, slave cylinder and rod.
Not perfect but works for my driver build.