getting that brand new look.

[chrisr65ls]

does anyone have any advise on the best way to clean the engine up to get that 'new' look without pulling it out for bead blasting?
Is there a product that will do the job?

[larstorders]

Yes.
Scotch brite and orthophosphoric acid (alloy wheel cleaner)  seem to be the favourites. Happy polishing.
PS, I'm told that we shouldn't bead blast our engine blocks cos them little rascals can get in the oil ways and cause a terminal occlusion.

[nhmaf]

Some people use WD-40 to help with degreasing especially stubborn grease areas, too.

Do use the scotchbrite-type synthetic pads and do NOT use the copper/steel wool pads as they create heavy/deep scratches and
can leave particles behind, which then rust/oxidize and make things look uglier.

[steve hawkins]

Its a long process that is probably done a bit at a time or something that can be done over a period of time.

Scotchbrite, stiff plastic brushes, and a degreasant are the key - plus a light oil (gt85, wd40, etc)you can spray on afterwards to protect the finish you have achieved.

Acids must be used with care - do not leave them on for long and test a small area first.

Media blasting should only be done if you are stripping you engine to individual componenets and then you should ensure that everything is clear of the media before you rebuild - this is difficult.  However you can blast individual items - front and top cover and top ends if you have them stripped down.  But be prepared for a 'two tone' engine and gearbox.

The point is, is that there are no 'silver bullets'.  

Please do not be tempted to polish your engine......you will enter a 'world of pain' and the finished product will not be to everyone's taste and is not the finish that BMW meant to have for thier bikes.  You can tell that I am not a fan of highly polished bikes.

"Chrome won't bring you home"

Steve H

[Lucky_Lou]

please do not be tempted to polish your engine......you will enter a 'world of pain' and the finished product will not be to everyone's taste and is not the finish that BMW meant to have for thier bikes.  You can tell that I am not a fan of highly polished bikes.

"Chrome won't bring you home"

Steve H
[/quote]Good advice some muppets mignt think ita a harley
Lou

[scuba]

Painfully boring and looooong, but it works. I have polished (just once) engine and gearbox with rough woolen cloth. I mean, realy rough wool. First wash the bike with some soap or car champoo to degrease it and than rub it with rough wool. Many moons will pass and the mountain is going to change it's face but you will have a nice looking bike. And as for orthophosphoric acid, you can use coca cola. It's just a mild solution of it but it will do some job. Wash with plenty of water or your bike will smell like candy store when you fire it  

good luck