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Technical & Reference Section => Tech and Restoration => Topic started by: Clean on June 11, 2012, 04:23 PM

Title: Any tips for cleaning up the raw alloy base of a an early 80s Stem?
Post by: Clean on June 11, 2012, 04:23 PM

RADsters,

I am trying to resto a stem. The top clamp has gone away for a dose of powder from our very own SBD, and the base is a little grubby. Lots of oxidation and general grubbiness.  :-\

I was wondering if there are any insider tips beyond elbow grease and / or a polishing wheel?  ???

Would a dip in Oven Pride help things along?  ???

Anything else I could / should be doing?  ???

Thanks,

Clean.

(You would think with a name like that I would know better  :uglystupid2:)

Title: Re: Any tips for cleaning up the raw alloy base of a an early 80s Stem?
Post by: BENDYCAT ELEVENTEEN on June 11, 2012, 08:18 PM

pic's  ;)

Title: Re: Any tips for cleaning up the raw alloy base of a an early 80s Stem?
Post by: Gary72 on June 11, 2012, 10:59 PM

I've just done one, And there was quite a few marks/digs in it. Went over it with quite coarse paper, Then slightly finer. Then used a buffing wheel to get it smooth again. All the time being careful not to delete the MS-422. Then I used a fine foam wet/dry sanding pad, Then finished with Autosol.
I didn't want a mirror finish over polished finish.

Title: Re: Any tips for cleaning up the raw alloy base of a an early 80s Stem?
Post by: Clean on June 13, 2012, 07:21 AM

In the end, impatient for responses, I gave the bugger a little bath in Oven Pride and five minutes later, one mint raw alloy stem! All oxidation, scuff marks etc. gone and nice dull raw alloy all ready for some elbow grease and Peek.

 :daumenhoch: