Engine Parts Cleaner Recommendation

[911 tweaks]

Cordts- Please enlighten me as to what Varsol is. + and - to using it. Is it solvent removable? A permanent coating? What if any maintenance does it require? What have you used it on and what are your experiences? Other things to use it on? Where can I get it?

Thanks alot! Bob

[Cordts]

Varsol used to be the standard issue solvent in parts cleaners in this area.. it would cut through greas, oil and grime like no ones business.. it is now hard to find,, I get it through a local Home Heating Oil supplier.. that is my only source now.. After reading all the posts that you have here,, It appears that you just want to protect the finish that you have developed on those rngine parts,, they do look nice.. honest to goodness,, I think tht I would have them powder coated clear or silver/chrome. I think that the silver/chrome would be the best since it would fill in a little of the pits that have developed in the metal. The powder coat method should be your only alternative for developing a long lasting heat resistant finsh.. furthermore,, check what POR 15 has in their heat resistant finishes... as I remember,, there is a silver finish this is "To Die For" and it is easily applied,, and since it is POR 15,, you know it will last.. hope this helps..

[Porsche_monkey]

Varsol:

http://www.exxonmobilchemical.com/Public_Products/Fluids/Aliphatics/Worldwide/Grades_and_Datasheets/Fluids_Aliphatics_VarsolNaphtha_Grades_WW.asp

Coating:

http://www.jet-hot.com/Pages/coatings.html

[Cordts]

Jet Hot is a Great Product also..

[911 tweaks]

Thanks Cordts & PBH for your info. I actually have experience using jet-hot on a ford exhaust header...stuff is bullet proof and a little pricey in my opinion.

I will keep the Varsol in mind next time I need to replace my cleaning solvent. I am having pretty good luck with the stuff my friend Chris Bennet recommended...Super Agatine...you can see the can in the pictures...best about this stuff is that it is not too smelly and it leaves a slight coating on the parts so they wont rust after they come out of the cleaning tank.

Well, new info***!!! I had the 3M rep stop by today and by god his bristle discs do work!!!! Just look at the pictures of the shinny areas next to the black speckled areas that has yet to be cleaned. I cant wait for half decent outside temps to go nuts on the tranny and the engine case and the trailing arms. Those are my additional items to clean up.

After the cleaning, I am leaning more and more to clear powder coating all of the items (upper & lower valve covers; breather plate, trailing arms, fan housing, did I miss anything?)

Can anyone chime in on the durability of powder coating. I do realize if it chips I am screwed as it cant be touched up as the chemicals (shark hide, gibbs, everbrite, tectyl 846, wd-40) all can be touched up with the swipe of a rag or brush.

Anyone able to sway me one way or the other?

Anyway, since winter is arriving in Boston tonite and tomorrow, I am going to be chomping at the bit for the next few days till I can get wheelin' the 3m discs (3M rep suggest to wear a resperator and preferably to the work outside to be safe)

Thats all for now folks...stay tuned.
Bob

[911 tweaks]

oops here are the pictures...