In an earlier post I detailed how I assembled some Gen-2 engine & valve covers in preparation for installation. With all that pretty powdercoating you'll want the various fasteners to look their best, and here's how I approach that detailing.
I find fasteners and brackets in all manner of condition; most are salvageable and some are just too far gone, but many are specific, non-generic fasteners so you don't always have the luxury (or budget) to replace with new. The first photo shows how the 6mm clutch/alternator cover bolts looked — corroded, dirty with a generally "dry" metal appearance. After cleaning, I gently buff the fasteners with a soft rotary brass or steel brush on a medium speed and see how well that works. I also wire brush the threads. Resist the urge to use a bench grinder-style wire brush, you will remove any paint or plating and end up with rusted bolts. I then wipe them with a metal protectant, like Corrosion X or ACF-50 which will help bring back the dark color. There's about 25 of these bolts for just the engine and valve covers, so you'll need a bit of time. Alternatively, these bolts are still available from Honda; about $40 would cover all the clutch and alternator bolts. Small brackets also benefit from this effort — the fuel pump holder is pictured with some finished bolts.
I find fasteners and brackets in all manner of condition; most are salvageable and some are just too far gone, but many are specific, non-generic fasteners so you don't always have the luxury (or budget) to replace with new. The first photo shows how the 6mm clutch/alternator cover bolts looked — corroded, dirty with a generally "dry" metal appearance. After cleaning, I gently buff the fasteners with a soft rotary brass or steel brush on a medium speed and see how well that works. I also wire brush the threads. Resist the urge to use a bench grinder-style wire brush, you will remove any paint or plating and end up with rusted bolts. I then wipe them with a metal protectant, like Corrosion X or ACF-50 which will help bring back the dark color. There's about 25 of these bolts for just the engine and valve covers, so you'll need a bit of time. Alternatively, these bolts are still available from Honda; about $40 would cover all the clutch and alternator bolts. Small brackets also benefit from this effort — the fuel pump holder is pictured with some finished bolts.
The chrome valve cover bolts are typically stained with dirt and surface rust. Using 0000 steel wool and chrome polish, the bolts came back to new.
The number of bits and bobs needing detailing seem endless on these projects. Here's a small selection showing how I keep them separated and labeled. Clear sandwich bags are a popular alternative, but I like to have the parts out where I can see them so I just use various size containers. This also makes it obvious which fasteners and brackets are in still in need of a cleanup.
Yes, it a labor-intensive chore but, yes, it takes your project to the next level.
Yes, it a labor-intensive chore but, yes, it takes your project to the next level.
RSS Feed