We were all admiring Statman's clean engine on another thread, which got me to wondering what you guys use to clean the crankcase. Mine has got some light brown or tan gunkus underneath that is impervious to brake cleaner. Based on pics I've seen on the boards, others have that same stuff on their engines. So...

Anyone know what it is? Coolant?
What did you use to remove it?

Jeff

 

Cosmolean? I think thats how you spell it. Its to protect the vehicle during transit on the ship from salt water.

By the way, the title made me laugh.

 

Thanks for the tip! I found this article on cleaning the stuff off old guns using steam. I think I'll give it a try. Even if doesn't work, there are probably hundreds of fun things to point a portable steamer at.

http://www.surplusrifle.com/shooting...line/index.asp

Jeff

 

You ain't seen nothin yet...check out Orient's car:

Orient Express

 

It's Cosmoline. Orient Express (Gary) is the man!! Award winner and excellent source for detailing, mods and maintenance tips. You an use some Adam's engine cleaner to remove it or P21S wheel cleaner gel (need to rinse it well though).

 

The reason cosmolean is there is to inhibit any oxidation from polution, and road salt, both of which will attack the alum alloys used .

 

You can use a non-caustic degreaser to remove it. Spray it on, wait a few minutes and start wiping. It takes quite a bit of elbow grease though, and be ready to spend a good amount of time and energy under there and get dirty. But MAKE SURE the degreaser is non-caustic, or it will eat away at the aluminum.