Cleaning Flapper Boxes
 

After posting some photos of cleaning the Flapper Boxes that I got from Peter Seow ($40 delivered from Singapore), Felipe asks me about the cleaning process, so here it is.

I disassemble one at the time so I could have a reference when it came time to reassemble (mirror image to each other);

My basic cleaner is call Facto AT-30 from http:www.swishclean.com/clean-itcenters.htm?ECINFO=//SWISHLOCATIONS (Canada/US/Europe)

Less than $5 a Liter when bought in a pale. Hopefully there is a store close to you.

Check my cleaning thread: http://forums.pelicanparts.com/cleaning-detailing-polishing/550748-best-cleaner-bar-none.html



Step 1: Remove the spring on the other side (not shown) and clean the center piece.

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1296956728.jpg

Step 2: Remove the captive clip from the shaft.

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1296956752.jpg

Step 3: Carefully removed the plastic bushing (red) by prying it side to side. It may already be cracked or you may crack it or split it all together. I don’t think you can buy them on their own but even if they are cracked or broken (crazy glue should work) they should still work as the fit into a recess.

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1296956782.jpg

Step 4: Pull (or pry off) other side as the shaft slide through the flapper. I may require a gentle hammer hit to get it loose.

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1296956815.jpg

Step 5: Removed the inside flapper.

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1296956849.jpg

Step 6: Clean/paint to you heart content.

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1296956878.jpg

Step 7: Reassemble by sliding the bar through the flapper (the cleanest side go toward the inside of the car as shown).

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1296956928.jpg

Step 8: Insert the plastic bushing.

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1296957024.jpg

Step 9: Secure the retaining clip on the shaft end.

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1296957069.jpg

Step 10: Reinstall the spring.

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1296957110.jpg

Thank you JJ

That was sooooo helpful. No more rusty ugly flappers!!!

That's a great write up!

Doh! another job! thanks allot there goes my weekend :-(

I would get them plated before reinstalling - they will surely rust quickly if they are not at least plated.

These things should be made from Al or stainless...

Spray it with CLEAR rustoleum after and the rust will stay away longer. Obviously don't spray moving parts together.

EDIT: or do what RWebb suggested. Plating is probably more correct, but more expensive. I usually spray all my exposed fasteners too.

Good little project!!
Thanks for posting!

+1