Cleaning gearbox Options

[mgardstr]

I just seperated the engine from the gearbox and wanted to clean the gearbox before replacing the seal and connecting it back to the engine. What do you suggest for cleaning off the 37 years of yuck? It's cold outside and I don't really want to be using the pressure washer, if that's a suggestion.

[Dr Evil]

Rich, the pitting that you are seeing is exfoliative corrosion. It is largely due to the salt we have here. It is pretty rare in non-rust belt states. When I was doing rebuilds in San Diego I dont recall seeing any with this. After moving to the East I see a majority with it. Generally, it is the tail cone that takes the brunt so I always have replacement ones on hand.

Once the mag is clean it will begin to form the white powdery oxidation. Mag is very easily oxidized. Read up on it in my 31 pages of notes. That is why after cleaning the case you need to coat it with something. The factory used Tectyl, but it only lasts about 1 year and needs to be reapplied. Spray paint would do a better job.