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Aluminum alloy white corrosion - solution?

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  #1  
Old 08-26-2010, 11:37 PM
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Default Aluminum alloy white corrosion - solution?

I have a 92 FLHS and over the years the aluminum alloy transmission case and some other parts on the motor are really starting to look white rather than aluminum color. Is there a way to strip off that corrosion without doing more damage? I have seen suggestions in other contexts for vinegar, lemon juice, etc. Would greatly appreciate any suggestions. I apologize if I put this thread in the wrong place too. Thank you. Tommy
 
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Old 08-27-2010, 12:17 AM
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if there is a clear coat on it, you need to strip it off(aircraft stripper,just dont get it on anything else) then use aluminum polish.. you can get a buffer wheel to put in a drill and get it to look like chrome if you want or use or a scotchbright pad to get a even dull grey color
 
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Old 08-27-2010, 12:53 AM
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I've had good luck with white Scotch bright pads. The urethane passivate coating has mostly been burnt off by UV after 18 years. A little fingernail Polish remover or a acetone will strip what's left off
 
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Old 08-27-2010, 01:25 AM
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Try vinegar or, my preference, Mothers Mag and Aluminum polish.
 
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Old 08-27-2010, 02:23 AM
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Vinegar is definitely good advice. I've never used the Mothers aluminum and mag polish, but txfxstrider is on a roll, so if you're not happy with the vinigar, try the Mothers.
 
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Old 08-27-2010, 04:01 AM
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If your talking about the actual case try some mag/aluminum spray cleaner for uncoated wheels. You can usually find it at most autoparts stores.
 
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Old 08-27-2010, 06:24 AM
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Originally Posted by j1mmy
if there is a clear coat on it, you need to strip it off(aircraft stripper,just dont get it on anything else) then use aluminum polish.. you can get a buffer wheel to put in a drill and get it to look like chrome if you want or use or a scotchbright pad to get a even dull grey color
+1
 
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Old 08-27-2010, 07:03 AM
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Scotch Brite will remove the oxidation but will leave a satin finish.May not match the other untouched raw aluminum parts when done.
 
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Old 08-27-2010, 07:47 AM
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mothers polish
 
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Old 08-27-2010, 09:13 AM
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Use any aluminum or metal polish (I like blue magic). On cast surfaces I use it with a brush (actually several brushes). Old tooth brushes work good, larger brushes for larger surfaces, smaller brushes to get in tight places.
Uncoated aluminum oxidizes (rusts) quickly (that is the white coating). The oxidation actually protects the metal underneath.
When you get it clean like you want it, apply a liquid wax to keep it looking good.
 


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