refinishing aluminum

[Chris H.]

In one of the Drivelines I read an article on how to use silver paint and a brush to restore the aluminum intake manifold.

Can someone tell me which date is was in? I cannot find it.

thanks

[Rob A.]

Re: refinishing aluminum

If I remember the article correctly, it suggested using Krylon dull aluminum paint, dilluted with thinner enought to have just a tint of silver and brushing it in.

[Len Rayca]

Re: refinishing aluminum

Rob: Wouldn't it have to be high temperature paint?

[Rob A.]

Re: refinishing aluminum

I don't remember the article calling for high temp paint. I think the idea was just to leave a slight tint of silver while cleaning the aluminum at the same time, rather than actually painting it. I have had good results using Eagle One brand "etching formula" mag wheel cleaner on the manifold (and other cast aluminum parts) diluted with laquer thinner. Try it on the back side first.

[Jeffrey S.]

Re: refinishing aluminum

Chris:
The article you are referring to was in the Winter 1993 edition of the Restorer. It was written by Bill Halbert. I have used this process on several aluminum parts (aternator and A.I.R. pump) with success but have never tried it on a manifold. It doesn't replace a the professional job but it improves the appearance tremendously.
Jeff

[Chris H.]

Re: refinishing aluminum--THANKS NM *NM*