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Joined
4/1/2008
Location
Minneapolis, MN
US
Hi everyone,
I am wondering what the best process is to restore swing arms and aluminum frames?
I have seen some amazing work that looks as good or better than new. Specifically looking for swing arm help.
Also, is there a sealer to apply at the end of the process?
Your help would be appreciated.
- Chad
Depends what you are working on… some arms were painted, some anodized…some have a grain that needs to be replicated…show us what you are working on…
Thank you Sandman.
I don't have any pictures right now but can get some.
This is what i would call a standard finish on modern dirt bikes. Looks like unfinished aluminum with grain running the length of the swing arm. But i am under the impression that there is indeed some type of clear coat over the aluminum?
This happens to be on a 2000 Montesa trials bike.
Guess I did have a couple on my phone
here...
The Shop
The grain is a brushed finish. I usually use a medium Scotchbrite wheel to clean it up and then a P120 pad by hand to get an even finish all running in the same direction. 240 is probably closer to most factory finishes although 120 helps to disguise knocks and gouges on older bikes. I leave it bare and have a bike done over 10 years ago that still looks good.
As Mr happy states, always go with the grain when sanding the arm. Clean it best as you can before any sanding work. Any deep digs or gouges can be carefully cleaned up with a small die grinder tip or dremel tip. Remember to not go any more aggressive than you need to with abrasives. I have left anodized arms bare after stripping also with good results. I have also had good results with a vapour blasting aluminum parts after initially cleaning & removing any digs or gouges.
Thank you guys.
When you say medium Scotch Brite wheel, are you referring to this specifically?
https://www.3m.com/3M/en_US/p/d/b40071656/
These.
https://www.thepolishingshop.co.uk/satin-wheels-pads-and-mops/satin-lap…
And then these by hand.
https://www.thepolishingshop.co.uk/satin-pad-coarse-a-grade-229mm-x-152…
Use that Wire Brush for all Aluminum parts on my KTM‘s with a good Result
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