Engine corrosion

[MikeyVeitch]

If I am posting to much shit, just tell me.
I am going to have some barrels bored out and I was wondering, if I left the barrels bare aluminium on the black engine (because I like how it looks), would the aluminium corrode and how fast would it happen?

[Upshotknothole]

Raw aluminum will oxidize, really depends on the conditions it's exposed to. You don't ever really see them left in bare aluminum though, because the black/dark grey paint helps them transfer heat better. Also if they do start to oxidize, it's going to be a bitch to clean it off between the fins. At most people might polish the edges of the fins, but leave the majority of the cylinder painted.

Have you read through the custom build threads? These are old engines, pretty much everything that can easily be done to them has been. Also check out the vault for lots of good info on what can and can't be done with them.

[fatblokeonbandit]

you mean like this??

 

Halfords high temp silver paint, works a treat

 

Edited August 23, 2023 by fatblokeonbandit

[TonyGee]

bare aluminium does corrode pretty fast, its a problem i have living on a small island surrounded by the Irish sea  

[wraith]

Yes will corrode fast but as FBB says paint them silver 

[MikeyVeitch]

35 minutes ago, fatblokeonbandit said:

you mean like this??

 

Halfords high temp silver paint, works a treat

 

Love this pal. I actually already have a tin of this paint but I thought it was going to be too bright lol. 

[TonyGee]

some say vapour blasting is better as it closes the pores in the ally,  but ive no idea if thats true or not 

[fatblokeonbandit]

or just polish the edges of the fins...

 

 

 

or go over the top, im still not sure this one was a good idea?? rocker box and sump as well?????

 

this ones in my Moto martin

 

only problem the blue paint isnt petrol resistant!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[Dezza]

Simoniz engine paint is designed for engine blocks/cases, is available in silver, and is easy to apply .

[Swiss Toni]

Seen good results from that. Matches GS1000 perfectly!

[Blower1]

VHT engine enamel, universal aluminum color. When it´s once heated to +100C, it is petrol resistant.

[Upshotknothole]

7 hours ago, fatblokeonbandit said:

or go over the top, im still not sure this one was a good idea?? rocker box and sump as well?????

 

 

I've got a polished sump on an 1100 engine and I'm not sure anyone else ever notices it other than me. Currently in the process of cleaning it again while the engine is out of the bike. I do love the way it looks, but it's so much maintenance, especially if the bike sees lots of rain.

[Rijko]

5 hours ago, Upshotknothole said:

I've got a polished sump on an 1100 engine and I'm not sure anyone else ever notices it other than me.

i would. Have done the same to several GS1000 sumps, valve breather covers  and oil filter covers ... looks great.