Cleaning Flapper Boxes

[JJ 911SC]

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.



Step 2: Remove the captive clip from the shaft.



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.



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.



Step 5: Removed the inside flapper.



Step 6: Clean/paint to you heart content.



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



Step 8: Insert the plastic bushing.



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



Step 10: Reinstall the spring.

[faverymi]

Thank you JJ

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

[Gogar]

That's a great write up!

[DRACO A5OG]

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

[RWebb]

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...

[Packy]

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.

[Geronimo '74]

Good little project!!
Thanks for posting!

[warner53]

+1