On 14 Oct 2006 09:19:06 -0700, "flybynightkarmarepair"
wrote:


Michael Horowitz wrote:
I've taken my aileron apart and notice corrosion on the thin aluminum
parts, so I'm reading around about cleaning prior to alodining. I've
taken a stainless steel brush to the surface and removed most of the
corrosion, but it's really a PITA.

Someone suggested using lye as a cleaner. Anyone have any experience
using supermarket lye in that role? - Mike

It's almost against the rules of this newsgroup to make a positive
suggestion, dedicated as we are to tearing one another down, but I'll
risk it ;-)

The Right Way to clean mild surface corrosion off aluminum is to soak
it in a mild solution of phosphoric acid, and scrub it with a
scotchbrite pad. Suitable solutions are sold as tile cleaners or
"metal prep".

Personally, I wouldn't use a stainless wire brush. It's a little too
aggressive, and the deep scratches it will leave are likely places to
start a fatigue crack.

If Jasco Metal Prep (a common West Coast brand) and a scotchbrite pad
won't take off the corrosion, you've got a Dead Part, IMHO.


Thanks; I have a similar product I used to strip zinc off conduit for
inexpensive tubing (for welding practice); I'll give it a whirl - Mike