The authoritative public forum
  for Metal Finishing since 1989
-----

How to keep aluminum motorcycle engines looking good

I would like to set up my business restoring motorcycles, can anyone tell me if there is a cost effective way of protecting alloy engine blocks to keep the finnish quality either by anodising or plating after removal of oxidation patches and cleaning, I know very little about the subject so please try to put it in laymans terms. many thanks

Dave Rigby
motorcycle restoration - Warrington, Cheshire, UK
2007

---

2007

Defining cost effective can vary from one person to another. Anodizing on motorcycle covers can be difficut due to the inconsitant material in the casting which can cause inconsistent color. Chrome plating seems to be the ideal finish for this type of application, however it is not considered cheap.
There might be some powder coatings that might be work for you. You can pick various color or maybe even clear coat over polished aluminum. The only concern with powder coating is getting excessive build ups in some areas that could cause fitting problems.
Good Luck, Frank

Frank DeGuire
- St. Louis, Missouri, USA