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Q&As since 1989


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Help cleaning aluminum intake manifold

I've searched until blue in the face, but can't find anything! The intake is cast aluminum and is a couple years old, it has some light surface corrosion but is mostly just dirty. I would like to know how to make it look like the new casting finish again. Are there any off the shelf cleaners or home recipes..please help

Chris Francis
hobbyist - Hampton, Virginia
2006

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Aluminum is really difficult to clean, and cast aluminum is the worst. I've tried a few over-the-counter cleaning solutions with no success, although some claim success with Aircraft Stripper, which is really nasty stuff. A better idea may be to talk to a local plating shop.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
2006

I presume that the reason you are concerned with cleaning the manifold is that the appearance of underhood components is very important to you. If it does not matter that the engine compartment is not as produced by the manufacturer, get the manifold powdercoated with an aluminum look material that is designed for high temperature applications. Anything else will just have to be repeated on a regular basis.

Gene Packman
process supplier - Great Neck, New York
2006