front fork restoration
#1
#6
Don't use a wire wheel made of any type of steel that will corrode. The wheel will leave microscopic steel particles embedded in the aluminum, and that can start corrosion. This is a proven phenomenon. FYI, any type of steel wire brushing on aluminum parts is strictly forbidden in the aerospace industry. Use a scotch-brite or brass bristle wheel, or aluminum oxide sand paper.
#8
I have restored many sets of fork legs by completely disassembling them, then degrease, then mask off all openings. I media blast with aluminum oxide, wash, dry, outgas, then powder coat with a finish that matches the original. They look nicer than new and the finish will outlast paint. The best time to do this is when you have to replace leaking fork seals. They're off the bike and already apart, so why not do it right?
Note that badly rusted or corroded parts will have pitting that may show through the new finish, but the parts will still look a LOT better.
Tom
Note that badly rusted or corroded parts will have pitting that may show through the new finish, but the parts will still look a LOT better.
Tom
Last edited by tomk1960; 08-10-2016 at 10:59 PM.
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