Achieving "As Cast" Finish

[Don L.]

Re: Achieving "As Cast" Finish

Neither the center link nor the tie rod ends are cast part. Both are hot forged, and that leaves a very different finish than cast iron parts.

Doh! I mis-interpreted page 105 of the '70-'72 Judging Guide, where it says these parts are "Natural Finish". I assUmed (your word) that the entire group under "Natural Finish" were the same in appearance. You saved me a mistake. Thanks for that. I suppose I'm gonna hafta find a way to deal with the center link's size now...

[James B.]

Re: Achieving "As Cast" Finish

Again, thanks to all for your suggestions- some good ideas and I'll try 'em all. hmm, welding gloves and a barbecue grill; I could even drink a beer as I was doing my spindle on the barbie....

[Terry M.]

Re: Achieving "As Cast" Finish

Doh! I mis-interpreted page 105 of the '70-'72 Judging Guide, where it says these parts are "Natural Finish". I assUmed (your word) that the entire group under "Natural Finish" were the same in appearance. You saved me a mistake. Thanks for that. I suppose I'm gonna hafta find a way to deal with the center link's size now...

Yes, my word. I like it.

There was a thread in the last couple of years in which someone attempted to re-create the as forged finish on the rear strut rods. As I remember lots of work, but the end result looked very good int he photos accompaning that thread. Now as to how it looked in person -- I just don't know.

Jet lag from the return adventure from Tucson (the flying machine broke. Fortunately while on the ground) so some of us were delayed, but glad to be home.

[Paul F.]

Re: Achieving "As Cast" Finish

Have you tried molasses and water to clean rusty steel parts or cast parts? I think the ratio is 10 parts water to 1 part molasses. You can google it as there is plenty of information to look at and make your mind up about if you will use it or not. It takes some time but it's almost free apart from the molasses cost.