Cleaning the block

Post by **billlobban** » Thu Dec 10, 2009 5:42 pm

I've recently read an Australian article about modifying A series engines that recommends 'pickeling' the block in a tub of molasses mixed with water. Apparently it removes rust etc.
Anyone tried it? or a better method even? (Roy)

Post by **bmcecosse** » Thu Dec 10, 2009 5:55 pm

Hmmmm - maybe try Cola - the cheap stuff from Tesco - contains phosphoric acid. If it's really manky - pressure wash it - but dry it off quickly before it rusts!

Post by **billlobban** » Thu Dec 10, 2009 10:24 pm

This is the article http://www.minimania.com/ArticleV.cfm?DisplayID=1881

Post by **bmcecosse** » Thu Dec 10, 2009 10:53 pm

Yes - the Mini lads often quote him! I can't agree about his choice of cylinder heads - but at least he sees the sense in using Equal Lift at (for some reason he says 'after' - a typo I think) TDC for his valve timing! Something others fail to understand at all!
I have never seen a block that didn't line up the oil ways with the bearing shells - but I suppose it can happen!