How to Clean an Aluminum Block

If you have an aluminum cast engine block that you want to put on display, then it will be a challenge to clean. If you have used cleaners with high alkalinity, then you may have noticed small black spots that have formed on the surface. To clean the aluminum cast engine block, you must bead-blast the engine.

Aluminum cleaner
Paper towels
Cloth
Wire bristle brush
Bead-blasting machine
Glass beads
Sand-blasting mask
Work gloves
Sponges (2)

Instructions

- 1
  Dab the engine with a chemical aluminum solution applied with a cloth or paper towel. Let it soak in for a few minutes.
- 2
  Scrub the engine gently with a wire brush to remove any black spots or old finish.
- 3
  Wipe off the engine with a damp paper towel.
- 4
  Rent a bead-blasting machine from your local home construction supply store. The machine blasts glass beads to clean the aluminum block.
- 5
  Put on a professional sand-blasting mask and long-sleeved shirt. You may also want to wear work gloves.
- 6
  Turn the machine on and move the nozzle over the engine about 2 inches from its surface. You will see the spots come off and the aluminum block engine finish become bright silver.
- 7
  Wash the engine thoroughly with aluminum cleaner and a sponge. Simply spray or pour the cleaner onto a sponge then wipe down the engine. Repeat this several times until all of the glass bead residue and finish residue are gone. Wet another sponge with water and wipe down the engine again.

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