cleaning/detailing aluminum radiator

[coredump]

I picked up a very expensive aluminum radiator that was probably unused for the past 3-4 years. The finish is a little dull. I'm not sure if it's a little bit oxidized (or not). I like to "restore" it to the original brushed aluminum finish. Any pointers on this? Any ideas on how to clean the fins and/or bring some shine into the fins?




thanks!

[Sandstone]

Re: cleaning/detailing aluminum radiator

There are a few choices:

1) **Do a test spot first**
2) Bare aluminum wheel cleaner - for fins
3) A/C evaporator cleaner - for fins. Home Depot sells a weak spray foam or you can visit your local appliance repair/parts store for a pro version.
4) Mag polish for the end caps

[coredump]

Re: cleaning/detailing aluminum radiator

Thanks!

Would any of these cleaners be too harsh for the black spray painted "ARC" on the fins?

[Black Bart]

Re: cleaning/detailing aluminum radiator

Try a aerosol can of Gunk Engine Bright it works great on aluminum motorcycle engines.

[Sandstone]

Re: cleaning/detailing aluminum radiator

Work from least to most agressive (roughly: Home Depot a/c cleaner, wheel cleaner, pro aluminum cleaner, Gunk). Gunk tends to oxidize aluminum (turn it gray) whereas the other products brighten it. Do a test spot to check compatability of all products. You could stencil and respray the logo if it comes off.

[Nick Chapman]

Re: cleaning/detailing aluminum radiator

Try some M105 or M205 on the solid peices. I have pretty good luck with aluminum and M105/M205. Of course this is no help for the fins

[coredump]

Re: cleaning/detailing aluminum radiator

cool, cool, thank you for the help!

[Black Bart]

Re: cleaning/detailing aluminum radiator

Work from least to most agressive (roughly: Home Depot a/c cleaner, wheel cleaner, pro aluminum cleaner, Gunk). Gunk tends to oxidize aluminum (turn it gray) whereas the other products brighten it. Do a test spot to check compatability of all products. You could stencil and respray the logo if it comes off.

Works just opposite for me for years I used it on the polished engine case of my cycle and it left them clean and shiny.
Maybe you are not rinsing with water enough

[coredump]

Re: cleaning/detailing aluminum radiator

M105 and M205, is it more abrasive or less abrasive than metal polish?

[coredump]

Re: cleaning/detailing aluminum radiator

And where can I buy gunk? Home depot or like auto parts store?

[Black Bart]

Re: cleaning/detailing aluminum radiator

And where can I buy gunk? Home depot or like auto parts store?

Auto Zone nearly any auto parts store should have it.
Any good aluminum cleaner usually contains acid it must be flushed good with water to prevent damage

[SCHOONER]

I'm Looking To Try This First

Hi Gang (Newbie Here)

From some research I've been doing about bringing a great SHINE to my DULL RADIATOR is this:

I'll use 4 to 600 grit sandpaper on a small part of my radiator.
Then I'll hit it with: 1200 s/paper.
Afterwards go over it with: Adam's Aluminum Polish.

If you guys want to try it and let me know do to the fact I won't have me car with a couple of week from now.


GOD BLESS
Schooner

Try a aerosol can of Gunk Engine Bright it works great on aluminum motorcycle engines.