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plating, anodizing, & finishing Q&As since 1989




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Cleaning auto transmission

2006

I am deep into auto restoration, and I am looking for a do it yourself process to etch clean a fully assembled auto transmission. I envision a scheme of applying some sort of solution to the item, waiting a defined period of time, and final rinsing. What I hope to archive is the appearance of a newly manufactured housing, of which I will apply a coat of clear urethane to protect it from re-oxidizing. My question what solution or progression of solutions can I use to accomplish this objective?

LeRoy Bainter

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2007

Have you considered abrasive blasting with glass beads and then powder coating to prevent rust etc.

Chris Goad

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2007

It's my understanding that bead-blasting a transmission housing is a questionable tactic. I have heard from multiple sources that the beads tend to embed themselves in the soft aluminum and work they way back out during use and circulate through the bearings, etc.

Jed C. P. Dunlap