cleaning your parts

[bivenator]

Currently have the front end apart for some refreshing of bushings, and shocks. I want to clean the control arms, struts etc and repaint before the reinstall. What would the pelicans use to clean these items\?
Thanks,\
Scott

[uncle_scott]

I have had good luck with a cupped wire brush on the end of a drill, and then some brake cleaner to help clean up gunky spots. After they are free of all the junk, you can use a "Chassis Black" paint from the auto store. It has a nice hard finish, and you can get a gloss or a matte black finish.

Of course, the best way to go would be bead blast and then powder coating the arms.

Good luck!

[RSTarga]

Yes. I second the powder coat. It's the most resistant.

[al lkosmal]

I've used both methods, with very good results.

Pressure wash, then wire brush, then carb cleaner and a toothbrush....followed by sanding, priming and painting..........................or

take it to the powder-coater and have them bead blast and powder-coat. (my preference)

[Joe Bob]

50/50 purple stuff and water.

[DaddyGlenn]

Just did a similar project. Sent the control arms to Chuck ar ERP for his rebuild service. Blasted the strut housings and gave them a coat of rattle can primer and paint. Did the same blast and spray treatment with other bits, too.

Mine will go back to daily use so I wasn't looking for perfection. If I was, I'd powder coat everything and replate all the nuts and bolts.

[HelmetHead]

Scott, My buddy owns a powdercoating shop in Kemah...if you want to go that route.

Friday Cheers!

[bkreigsr]

I used diesel fuel to clean my shocks and struts. Most everything else I tried removed the original green or orange paint. Diesel did not. Bill K

[masterdave]

+1 for break cleaner, it's cheap and works. I have used everything from gas to rubbing alcohol to carb cleaner, it all works. Be careful with gas and what not on painted parts.

Regards
Dave

[RWebb]

Let the powdercoating shop deal with the cleaning - they have all the equipment (sand blasters, etc.) and do it all the time.

[Rusty Heap]

Use OVEN cleaner if you want to strip all paint and grease. Use gloves, nasty stuff.