Engine paint strip.

[SlideRulz]

I have a complete engine in good running order but want to strip off the original black paint and then keep the mag/alloy look.
Should I go to a vapour/sand blaster or is there a way I can DIY?
Next question, how should I treat the bare alloy to maintain that look?
This has probably been covered before but I'm lazy.

[Mick D]

Yes I need that thread on Magnesium treatment as well slidey. I think it may have been Gippslander? that shared that one with us?

Off the track;;;;
Since then, These days, so I can find them threads, I have started to build a bookmark file index, Straight up when I see a useful thread, packed full of  knowledge, for future projects and prosperity.

Works great until you realise it had been started by one of the usual thread deleting Numb Nuts.

[Rossvickicampbell]

I wanted to do a back brake plate recently - just used Moto Pro paint stripper - took all the paint and shite off and the finished product came up good.  I would like to blast my gear but for smaller items this maybe better and easier to do.

[kenny5000]

Im also wondering about Mag casings as I have two engines that need stripping and painting. I was thinking that vapour blasting may bad for magnesium due it being reactive to water?

[mick25]

I have had two of my engines bead blasted 8 years ago and they still look the same as it was done on the day.
A mate of mine made is own blast both 2.5 /1.5 in size to blast frames and full engines he done a TT500 and DR500 engine for me complete running engine no probs.

I have not treated the alloy in any way and don't need two (STILL LOOKS GOOD ) .
 but with mag it will go a dark grey colour and should be coated in clear or paint to stop the water and air to cause it to rot . I like the bead blast look that's my two bobs.

[Mick D]

That's probably a good Idea Mick25, clear coat. I will hope to have my new soda blast plant running by Xmas.
I will try powder clear on my CZ front hub and two pac clear on the rear, the years will then tell.

I don't think you can buy the chemical that treats Mag with that gold finish, unless you have industry supply because of OH&S, could be wrong though.