Aluminum is more favorable than other metals because of its excellent characteristics such as excellent machinability, lightweight, corrosion resistance, high thermal conductivity, low density, and useful strength. Therefore, aluminum is most commonly used to make different parts of the car engine. Before starting the discussion about how to clean oxidized aluminum engine parts, you must first understand what aluminum (AI) is and why you need to clean it.
What is Aluminum?
Al (Aluminum) is a metallic element. It has been employed for a long time, especially in Rome and Egypt. It has the ability to bend easily, is lightweight, has high flexibility, and is very strong. It is an excellent conductor of electricity and heat.
Aluminum is most commonly used to make automobile parts. The first aluminum engine was designed by Carl Benz in 1901. Such types of engines are too much expensive. Therefore, after 60 years, the company closed the production of aluminum engines.
Every 1kg of aluminum used in the construction of a car engine reduces the weight of the car by 1kg. Therefore, nowadays, aluminum is used for the construction of transmission blocks, transmission bodies, radiators, engine blocks, intake manifolds, and some other parts.
During the service life of aluminum, the aluminum surface undergoes some changes. These changes occur due to different reasons. Here we are going to discuss the reasons of the changes that could occur and also discuss how to clean aluminum engine parts. You will also learn how to preserve the original condition and make cast aluminum look new.
How to Clean Oxidized Aluminum Engine Parts?
The removal of the oxidation from aluminum engine parts is not a tough task. Prior to starting the cleaning process, it’s recommended to use a high-pressure water jet to expel solid contaminants from your aluminum parts. This step ensures that you’re effectively addressing and treating any aluminum oxidation.
Follow the below-given steps to remove the oxidization from your aluminum engine parts:
Step 1) Cleaning of Aluminum Surface
To remove the oxidization from the aluminum engine parts, you first need to clean the surface of the aluminum parts by washing them with boiling water for a couple of minutes. You can also wash them by using a strong high-pressure jet of water.
To clean the oxidized aluminum wheels and siding, wipe them with a damp cloth and clean them with a water hose.
During the cleaning process, wash all the parts thoroughly with water and soap. Clean the parts gently with a soft brush or a scratchpad. If you are not getting the desired results, follow the next step.
Step 2) Cleaning Using Natural Cleaners
There are multiple methods to clean the aluminum parts of the engine with natural cleaners. You don’t need to buy natural cleaners because you can make them in your own home.
The very first and easy method is using vinegar. Make a vinegar and water solution by mixing 2 teaspoons of vinegar with every water quart. Now boil this solution for up to 10 to 16 minutes. As the solution is boiled, your natural cleaner will be ready. Now immerse your part in it and let it sit for a few minutes.
When cleaning the large aluminum surface, dip a clean cloth in the boiling mixture. Use this dipped piece of cloth to clean the surface until it is no longer rusty. Finally, wipe off any vinegar residue with a dry cloth.
Step 3) Using the Oxidation Removal Product
If you have tried all of the above methods and still have not got your desired results, then use this last option. In this option, you need to use an antioxidant product. Oxidizing products contain chemicals that react with oxidation.
Before starting this process, first, you need to wear gloves and apply an oxidation remover.
After removing the oxidization from the aluminum surface, it is vital to learn how to neutralize aluminum corrosion. You need to put a clear coat to protect the part against corrosion. After cleaning the aluminum, apply car wax. This helps to stop oxidation.
How to Clean Aluminum Engine Parts
Follow the below-given steps to clean the aluminum parts of your engine:
Step 1) Primary Methods
First of all, make the cast aluminum parts visually new. If your engine parts are visually looking dirty, simply wash them with water.
After washing the parts, dry them with a clean cloth. To clean the parts, you may also utilize some light cleaning products, such as dishwasher detergent. Follow the second step if the dirt is not removed completely.
Step 2) If the Dirt is Denser
If you are not getting results after applying the first step, then use this step to get the desired results. You must clean the aluminum engine parts by using an advanced cleaner such as Simple Green Extreme Aircraft or Precision Cleaner if the dirt on the parts is denser.
These cleaners have the ability to completely remove the dust from the aluminum parts. These cleaners also remove stubborn grease and grease without damaging the aluminum surface.
Simple Green Extreme Aircraft cleaner has also been tried on the body of the aircraft. You can apply this product on different surfaces such as carbon fiber, fabric, and aluminum. Therefore, this product is ideal, and it has an excellent cleaning effect on the aluminum surface.
The main advantage of this product is that it doesn’t damage rubber hoses, seals, and gaskets, unlike other solvents that can damage rubber engine parts.
Step 3) Using a Wire Brush
If you are still not getting results after finalizing the above two steps, apply this final step. In this, you have to use a soft wire brush. Most commonly, this brush has an equal size to a toothbrush.
Follow the below-given steps to clean the aluminum engine parts via wire brush:
- Use a light brush stroke on the aluminum surface.
- You shouldn’t brush too hard to avoid scratching the surface or damaging the parts.
- Move and clean the sides of the parts between tight spaces. This may not be the ideal method to clean aluminum, but it gives it a nice shine and makes it look as bright as new.
How to Prevent Aluminum Engine Parts from Oxidizing?
To prevent your aluminum engine parts from oxidizing (corroding), follow the following control measures:
- Apply protective coatings (such as paint or powder coating) on your engine parts
- Ensure regular cleaning of your parts
- After cleaning, properly dry your engine parts
- Use protective covers or films
- Avoid salt exposure
- Prevent your parts from harsh chemicals
- Ensure proper lubrication of the aluminum moving parts
FAQ Section
What Can Chemical Be Used to Clean Aluminum?
You may use different natural cleaners to clean the Aluminum surface. You may make a cleaner by mixing cream of tartar (tartaric acid) in addition to lemon juice (citric acid) and vinegar (acetic acid).
What Can I Spray on Aluminum to Clean It?
You can spray a natural cleaner on the aluminum. Make a natural cleaner by mixing 2 teaspoons of vinegar with every water quart. Now boil this solution for up to 10 to 16 minutes. As your solution is ready, immerse the aluminum part in it and clean it.
Can Baking Soda and Vinegar Clean Aluminum?
Yes, you can use baking soda and vinegar to clean the aluminum engine parts, but you must rinse your aluminum engine parts completely after using baking soda. This is because baking soda may cause the oxidization of aluminum.
What Is the Best Cleaner for Aluminum?
Vinegar is a best natural cleaner to efficiently clean metals. By mixing an equal amount of water and vinegar, you can make the best natural cleaner for your aluminum parts.
Therefore, this solution can be used differently depending on the cleanliness of the object. On sunny days and when it rains a lot, you can polish and clean the exterior surface by lubricating it with a cloth.
Can I Use Degreaser on Aluminum?
Stainless steel and stain aluminum are the main ingredients of maximum degreasers. It gets worse if the surface stays dry all the time. The solution will take some time to work according to requirements. The metal polish can be done in seconds.
What causes oxidation on aluminum engine parts?
- Atmospheric oxygen
- Salty environments
- Moisture
- Exposure to specific pollutants or chemicals
- Excessive temperatures
- Abrasions, scratches, or other forms of physical damage