cleaning aluminum intakes

[CamarosRus]

Bill S, THE same Jeff Betz,indeed. He recently sold his WORLDS BEST 77' Z-28 & extremely impressive 02' Z-28.....and as you said changed direction with an older Chevelle 2 Dr wagon. I've seen pics of NEW 502/502 and Tremec 5-spd. Stand by for further details.....I stayed at Jeff's home during Woodward Ave dream cruise....
Chuck S

[MosportGreen66]

The intake on the Coupe was in good condition to begin with. Mild media blasting... then steel wool and WD40 cleaned it up real nice... The process has held up as well.

[P.J.]

Phosphoric acid and Nitric acid dip is the best nothing cleans aluminum better. I used it in the manufactoring of aircraft tooling for years. You can find a local aluminum
treatment company and ask if they will dip it for you.Those chemicals
are to be handled by pros and with the right equipment. Sand blasting your intake is not recomended as it is like adding sand in your gas tank use glass.
Peter

[NCGuy68]

[ QUOTE ]
Phosphoric acid and Nitric acid dip is the best nothing cleans aluminum better. I used it in the manufactoring of aircraft tooling for years. You can find a local aluminum
treatment company and ask if they will dip it for you.Those chemicals
are to be handled by pros and with the right equipment. Sand blasting your intake is not recomended as it is like adding sand in your gas tank use glass.
Peter

[/ QUOTE ]

I agree, but use plastic media for blasting rather then glass or sand.

NOW...once you have that cast aluminium part looking OEM, how do you preserve the finish?

[hugger_69]

A buddy and I restored an original set of 69 Z covers just last Sunday and here is what we did to them. A light media blast with some real fine glass (worn out), then cut them with Triple 0 Steel Wool under the wash brush in a Varsol Bin. They were then washed down with Brake Clean and here is the end result. They look pretty darn close the factory finish if you ask me?



Graeme

[Salvatore]

Look good but I think to aluminum looking. I have an original non-dripper set on my car and they do still look original. I don't remember aluminum valve covers having a real uniform lookin sheen as the NOS ones do today. Intakes and valve covers are not supposed to look like they were touched. JMO. Old saying is.... whatever blows your dress up! Sam

[olredalert]

Chuck,

-------The wagon is a 69, therefore not a 2-door. It is one of the cleanest 69 Chevelles I have ever come aross, and will make a hell of a family "truckster". Cant wait to see the final outcome.
-------Are you planning a return engagement at Woodward?..........Bill S