4 speed case cleaning

[Bill W.]

I started cleaning my transmission cases . The main case came out good using my parts washer and purple power . The tail shaft has a thin layer of crud that wont budge . I have used my glass bead cabinet in the past but it turns the alum. to light . I also have a small tumbler I use walnut shells in for headlamp parts . What are the experts using to clean alum. castings so they look like they did when new . Re skinning , painting or clear coating is not an option . Bill

[Leonard M.]

Re: 4 speed case cleaning

I tried all the recommended remedies and found the best for cleaning is Eagle One mag wheel cleaner for Raw cast, But to get it to look like new cast aluminum; use a soda blaster. I used it on my manifold and valve covers and could not beEngL.jpg happier with the results.

[Timothy B.]

Re: 4 speed case cleaning

Leonard,

I may be having a brain fart but is a soda blaster baking soda? The manifold on your car looks very nice..

[Bill W.]

Re: 4 speed case cleaning

thanks Lenard your manifold looks very good .

[Mark E.]

Re: 4 speed case cleaning

As a non-invasive first step, I've had good luck with Dawn dish soap diluted with warm water. Mix and spray on then use a stiff brush to work it into the crud. This is also a good way to clean the underside of your Vette while the tranny is out. Stubborn surfaces that are portable (for example, your tranny case) may require soaking in a tub of hot water and Dawn. It's cheap, non-toxic and smells good. I've also used brake cleaner but found Dawn to be more effective, less offensive to skin and lungs, and safe for painted surfaces and fiberglass.

This will leave a clean, original looking surface- albeit maybe not quite as bright as new. You can then decide if you want to soda or media blast. Others can comment about how much, if any, various media will affect surface texture.

[Leonard M.]

Re: 4 speed case cleaning

Yes, baking soda, but purchased in a 50lb bag. It won't remove rust on steel, but does a beautiful job on the cast aluminum. My valve covers were slightly polished and it restored that dull cast look. Only caution is not to do it on your lawn; that spot is still filling in!