Sand blast medium

[pjbizjak]

What is the best sand blasting medium for a aluminum intake manifold(z/28 3917610)?

[1968 Z28]

I think that you will find that the quality restoration guys do not blast the aluminum intakes....they tumble them.

[JohnZ]

Sand blasting will permanently ruin the original surface finish - send it to Jerry MacNeish and have him do it right.

[william]

Sandblasting is a messy, nasty, highly abrasive process that will etch surfaces and wear away details like casting numbers.

After 36 years of this hobby there are very few automotive parts I might sandblast during a restoration.

[sd1968z28]

plasic media does a very good job of cleaning aluminum.  we do quite a few look like new when done without material removal.

[68camaroz28]

John is correct in the comment "send it to Jerry"!  I have used fine glass bead at 15-20 PSI on some small alum parts and it did a very nice job without changing the texture but again they were small in nature. And with that pressure it is a slow operation. You might be surprised as the cost for Jerry to complete his magic is inexpensive IMHO. He did our 610 intake, trans cases, etc., and everything looks NEW.....

[69 4 Speed]

If it'not a factory aluminum manifold, just plug up the threaded heater fitting and turn down the pressure and use sand. I just did an old Holly manifold and it turned out great.

[GI JOE]

I discovered a method that works pretty well and keeps the factory finish and patina.  I first used Dawn liquid dish soap and a brush...water pressure and that cleans most of the oils off, then I used my wife's Tied powder detergent with a stiff scrub brush.  It came out looking brand new!  Good luck.  GI JOE

[lakeholme]

Joe, how long does that still look good?

[GI JOE]

So far mine are still looking day one original and clean but I have not had my cars out on the road day in and out so I am not sure if it will still look new after lots of street duty.  What I found is a cleaning method that cleans the road grim and deep stains off, bringing the case back to a clean day one look, preserves the natural finish and IMHO looks great. IF I had to settle for a media blast I would invest in the soda blast and or soft shell over glass.... but first I would try every cleaning method available, degreasers, ect... the Tied cleans deep and thorough but it does require you to scrub it in.    JOE