Engine detailing help

[Tom in TN]

Hey Y’all,
Got a question and maybe the only people that can answer this are those who like to keep a clean motor.
I am running an engine with an aluminum intake and a leaky Holley carb. This combination it has caused gasoline to stain the manifold various shades of brown in places.
I am not going to remove the manifold (but yes, I AM fixing that carb) but I do want to clean the brown stains off it.

So, what product do you use to clean the brown gasoline stains off of your aluminum intake?

Granted, I should have cleaned it sooner rather than let it buildup, but dealing with cancer makes one put off some things.

What is your ‘it works every time’ solution?

 

[NC Plumber]

I would try some oven cleaner. Carefully at first to make sure it doesn't darken the intake.

 

[glennpm]

Oven cleaner attacks aluminum and could turn the color black. I've used paint thinner, mineral spirts with good results.

Glenn

 

[TerryOH]

See this posting for cleaning cast aluminum.
https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/showthread.php?t=348446

 

[Tom in TN]

Thanks fellas

 

[BW]

Try Lacquer thinner.

 

[51504bat]

Maybe soda blasting?

 

[hotcoupe]

To clean aluminum, I always use "Alumiprep 33", or "Bonderite 33". It is 33% phosphoric acid, it CLEANS aluminum, the airplane guys use it.
Tom