Oily mess cleanup and what else?

[Dogma]

and image linking test....

What is the best way to clean up an oily mess on the engine? Some of this stuff is cooked on, some is caked on, and some is just plain on.

Why is the clutch cover a different color, and what is the best way to get that looking like it should?

While I'm in here changing shims and replacing boots, is there anything else I should do? this thing hasn't been taken apart this far since it was put together.

I can't even get the darn thing to show in the editor!

[Nessism]

You need to post a direct link bracketed [img]

[Dogma]

Ok, How'd you do that?

[Nessism]

There should be a direct link to the photo without all the framing provided by the photo service. Use the url for that photo...http:// bla bla bla . jpg

Bracket that url with [img] on one side and
[/img] on the back side.

I can post this code in one line on the forum because the software is looking for a photo in between.

Try again. There should actually be a link that already has the code on it. Take a closer look.

Regarding cleaning the engine, get some mild spray cleaner - not the high power stuff. Scrub with a tooth brush or similar. Don't forget to put the bolts back into the valve cover first or water will get into your engine.

Good luck.

[Dogma]

Whoa, there it is. Thanks for the help. I had to extract the direct link out of the link text that Picassa provided. Never would a figured that out.

Ok, now then...Will that mild cleaner and toothbrush also be the best way to attack the clutch cover? And are there suggestions for other jobs while it's torn down this far?

[Nessism]

Photobucket.com allows direct links to the photos. Not sure what to suggest.

[Dogma]

I might try a Photobucket account. Picassa seems to want to resize the images, or at least limit them to 800 wide. Thanks again for the help.

[Nessism]

Engine covers came from the factory with a clear coat that turns yellow, and then fails completely. Only way to restore the cover is to strip the old clear with paint stripper and then get out the sandpaper - start with 400 (or even coarser if necessary) and go up to 600. Some people use a power buffer and polishing compound. Lots of work but worth it.

[Dogma]

Engine covers came from the factory with a clear coat that turns yellow, and then fails completely. Only way to restore the cover is to strip the old clear with paint stripper and then get out the sandpaper - start with 400 (or even coarser if necessary) and go up to 600. Some people use a power buffer and polishing compound. Lots of work but worth it.

Hmmm. I might check BikeBandit for a new one... I hate sanding. I had to replace the cover just forward of that, and the new one looks incredible for not too much money. (PO apparently went for a slide).

[BassCliff]

Want a clean machine?

Mr. Dogma,

I liberally applied Simple Green to a warm engine, let it soak. Then a little scrubbing with a toilet brush (or similar), and rinse with water. Made a big difference. It's about time for it again.

Here's my previous Simple Green thread.

Keep up the good work.

Thank you for your indulgence,

BassCliff

[renobruce]

Simple Green or Purple Power. Tooth brushes and baby bottle brushes. Scrub, rinse, and repeat several times. Soaking helps, too. It will come clean eventually.





If you don't like to sand, just stripping the old clear off and polishing it by hand with some Mother's will be a big improvement.

[catbed]

coarse steel wool works, with a little quadruple zero after. then aluminum polish.

[Dogma]

Great info, gang. Thanks. I knew this had been discussed before, I just couldn't find it.