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Stripping aluminum

Stripping: need something to take the coating off aluminum motorcycle part to polish quicker? Sometimes the part does not come off the bike. Any help would be a big thank you.

Scott Scerschen
- Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
2003

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If the parts are anodized (clear or colored) you can try Easy-Off oven cleaner ⇦ this on eBay or Amazon [affil links] . I use to use this method when I use to race remote control cars. I wanted to polish the shock housings and they came with gold anodizing. Do this in a well ventilated area, and you may want to try it out on an extra or scrap part first. I can't remember that exact time required, and it may take multiple applications. Make sure you wear rubber gloves ⇦ this on eBay or Amazon [affil links] and don't get it near your eyes. Good luck.

Stan Smith
- Cloverdale, California, USA
2006

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And if it's a clear coat rather than anodizing, you should be able to remove it with Aircraft Stripper. Although it's chemically very different (methylene chloride), it is also nasty stuff. Alternately you can get the coating professionally removed by a plating shop if you prefer. Good luck.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey

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Ed. note: letters 800, 1831, and 10917 go into substantial detail about aluminum polishing.