After a few hours spent refitting the subframe and associated wiring, accessories and parts to Project 17, I stood back and saw the depressing scene at right: the subframe/fender was sitting a full inch to the left of the tire centerline. Not good.
With a completely unknown history, I set to measuring and checking level and plumb of the various components. I deduced that the problem probably lay with the swingarm, but just to be sure that it wasn't the subframe (more likely), I fitted a spare subframe...with the same results. So off came the subframe, wheel, shock and swingarm and on went a spare swingarm followed by the subframe and fender. Success — everything lined up nicely.
With a completely unknown history, I set to measuring and checking level and plumb of the various components. I deduced that the problem probably lay with the swingarm, but just to be sure that it wasn't the subframe (more likely), I fitted a spare subframe...with the same results. So off came the subframe, wheel, shock and swingarm and on went a spare swingarm followed by the subframe and fender. Success — everything lined up nicely.
Unfortunately, the "new" swingarm was in tough cosmetic condition with lots of staining, but no scratches or other damage. As it turns out, these swingarms are anodized at the factory with an aluminum-colored finish. I started checking around locally to see if anyone could remove the finish for me (sandpaper doesn't faze it), but everyone seemed stumped. I then turned to Google and discovered a home-brewed process to remove anodizing from aluminum.
And here's the magic stuff: Easy-Off oven cleaner. I took the piece out into the sun for a little solar assistance and started experimenting. I found that an initial soaking for about 20 minutes, wipe, and re-soak for an additional 10 minutes was the ticket. The entire swingarm used one can of Easy-Off.
And here's the rather discouraging result. The process left behind this black residue. I thought sure I'd done more harm than good, but not to worry....
A quick application of Mother's Mag & Aluminum Polish applied with a non-scratch kitchen pad dissolved the blackened finish and left raw aluminum.
The raw finish was still not completely uniform in appearance so I brought out an old trick and lightly wet-sanded the piece with 500-grit sandpaper, leaving a nice, smooth matt finish.
This was followed by a light application of Mother's and then hand-buffed.
The result is better than I'd hoped for. Amazingly, the chain wear decal survived the entire ordeal.
Job done!
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