Polishing the engine

[kar_the_terrible]

Hi,
I want to know what you guys use for polishing engines. I've used degeaser, but that doesnt really seem to get rid of the patina/hard film on the engine exterior.

I know its a pain to clean the cooling fins, but Id at least like to buff up the side covers a bit. If you guys have any tips on getting the fins clean tht'll help.

I kind of hada my eye on the metal polish meant for aluminium steel etc that you get off the shelf (non chrome variety). just wondering if any of youo guys have tried that.

thx

[Joe Mc]

I use Eagle One aluminium wheel polish and super fine steel wool. Works quite well.

[kar_the_terrible]

thanks. i couldnt find any eagle one, so I used mother's metal polish... it works pretty well, I had a lot of film deposit on the engine, so i used up all my elbow grease for today, and can see some reflections in the aluminium side covers....

i think with two more sessions it will be pretty good.

[Borris]

If they're real bad I would use aluminum wheel cleaner 1st. **wear rubber gloves and face mask, it has acid in it** Then I would step it down with steel wool - course, medium, fine then polish.

This is gonna sound strange but it works... After polishing or light oxidizeation flour or babypowder on a dry cloth takes alot of the BLACK residue out of the aluminum.