C 4 detailing

[Lyndon S.]

What is the best way to clean up the aluminum parts on the under carriage on C 4 cars? Need some advice on what cleaners would make the parts look bright and fresh like factory.

[Kurt G.]

Re: C 4 deatling

Try using a cleanser made especially for aluminum. You should be able to find it at the local grocery store, or at an auto parts store for aluminum wheels. However, don't expect too much. Unfortunately, the stuff will clean off the grime, but not the discoloration caused by oil, grease and road grime. Aluminum is a soft metal with lots of pores that soak up stuff. Also, most of the wheel cleaners were designed to polish as well as clean, which will look pretty but is not typical for factory finish. I've tried both on my '94 suspension parts, and after a very short time was not happy with the results and stopped before I got that mirror finish nobody wants.

[Bill H.]

Re: C 4 deatling

I use cheapo Tech brand degreaser (Wallymart) BUT you have to keep it off the rubber parts like brake hoses. And Simple Green, full strength with Scotchbrite (lightly) on my 92, comes out great.

[Patrick N.]

Re: C 4 deatling

Lyndon, I use a power washer from time to time. It always works great on the front A arms, underside of car and the wheel well shrouds. I finish with some lacquer thinner on a rag.

[John D.]

Re: C 4 deatling

Lyndon ,Harsh chemicals on aluminum will darken the castings in short order. Several applications of a weak solution is better than one strong application.
When I used to clean the fuel injection castings myself I used phospheric acid, Dawn dish detergent and lot of warm water and elbow grease. The castings would look good for a little while. I used scotch brite pads and steel wool. That was in the old days. I also tried every chemical I could get ahold of. Aluminum storm door cleaner, etc.
When I had my '84 I used to spray the aluminum parts with watered down aluminum cleaner in a spray bottle mixed with liquid detergent. I wiped the parts off with a sponge& water rinse. With regular cleaning the suspension parts looked quite nice over the years.
Go to Lowe's and buy some Zep Commerical All Purpose cleaner. John

[Ed N.]

Re: C 4 deatling

Try using a cleanser made especially for aluminum. You should be able to find it at the local grocery store, or at an auto parts store for aluminum wheels. However, don't expect too much. Unfortunately, the stuff will clean off the grime, but not the discoloration caused by oil, grease and road grime. Aluminum is a soft metal with lots of pores that soak up stuff. Also, most of the wheel cleaners were designed to polish as well as clean, which will look pretty but is not typical for factory finish. I've tried both on my '94 suspension parts, and after a very short time was not happy with the results and stopped before I got that mirror finish nobody wants.

I agree with Kurt's assessment. I ended up with brighter look than the typical factory finish, but I prefer it that way. I take my deductions and live happily after with my Top Flight Award. The picture is an example of what I'm talking about.

A-Arm.png

[Ed N.]

Re: C 4 detailing

What is the best way to clean up the aluminum parts on the under carriage on C 4 cars? Need some advice on what cleaners would make the parts look bright and fresh like factory.

Lyndon, try this product with progressive measures: http://www.loctiteproducts.com/p/s_t...inum-Jelly.htm

[Lyndon S.]

Re: C 4 detailing

Has anyone used Castrol super clean on the parts?

[Bill H.]

Re: C 4 detailing

Has anyone used Castrol super clean on the parts?

Yep, and also Power Purple but I like Simple green a tad better. I use at full strength on the C4 suspension.

[Lyndon S.]

Re: C 4 detailing

With the fiberglass springs should I be worried about getting any of the cleaners on them?

[Patrick N.]

Re: C 4 detailing

Yes- do not get cleaners on the spring. Cover them if you are cleaning the bat wing and half shaft