What are you using to clean aluminum corrosion on an installed engine?

[cleandan]

I am working with a 1994 F250, with a stock (FI) 460.
This truck sat outside for a while and now has that fuzzy/white/chalky aluminum look to all aluminum engine parts.
I am wondering if there is a good product that will help me get things looking better?
Not necessarily shiny, polished, or brand new....but at least less fuzzy/white/chalky.

Thanks, and have a great day.

[cleandan]

76 views and nobody has any type of suggestion?
I figured you guys would have all kinds of useful suggestions for sprucing up the oxidized aluminum parts.
I am not disappointed in the lask of responses, but I am surprised.

[shady]

OK I'll bite. An aluminum wheel acid wash my work. The problem I see is anything that will clean alum. will be harsh to  electrical connectors, wiring and such. Ford had shitty electrical connectors and harnesses in the 80's and 90's and I for one wouldn't touch it with anything but a Brillo pad. Clean by hand what you can see and call it a day.

[Joe-JDC]

I found that the local car wash has an engine degreaser that can be sprayed on, let sit for a few minutes while I clean the tires/wheels, and then go back to the engine with soapy high pressure wash, it comes clean like new.  Makes all the rubber look new, and I usually leave the engine running so that there is not the chance of an electrical misfire when I try to restart the engine.  Give it a try, it is much easier than trying to use a brass wire brush or chemicals and cold water hose.  Joe-JDC

[Diogenes]

As was previously posted, you'll need to be careful with any underhood wash. I had the same issue with a very clean, low mile 02 Grand Marquis. I washed it at the local power wash and then had to replace the heater blower resistor. I guess it was worth it, but still a PITA.

[RustyCrankshaft]

Alumabrite from Napa or some other source. There are 2 different types, the brightner is generally not as harsh. You could also dilute it if needed.

[cleandan]

Thanks, I appreciate all the information.

[gregaba]

I use a product called Rust Bandit.
Spray it on, let sit for a minute and rinse off.
Works good but won't take off grease  or dirt.
Greg

[urchinhead]

I used a hand held steam cleaner to get rid of the grease and oxidation on my AMC/Jeep 258 just recently. Karcher SC, made in Germany and was $100 on eBay. I used it for on and off-engine parts, and it worked great. Oven cleaner sprayed on the greasy parts, and nothing but steam and hand scrubbing where the electrical connections were located.

The oxidation is tough to totally eliminate on parts left outside, but a wipe down with some oil made a big difference after cleaning.

[fekbmax]

WD 40 and fine steel wool.  Wipe down with a clean rag after.