Black engine looks grey

My '83 750's engine looks grey from all the years of sun exposure and being out in the elements.

Anyone have any luck cleaning it to get it back to black, or at least removing the "oxidation" without a repaint?

 

You could try some Meguiar's Ultimate Compound but I'd test on a small test area first.


Rollin

 

What he says.. The oxidation is old paint meaning less paint is on the engine cases.

The cleaner the old paint is the better the chances for the removal of the oxidation. The EZ method is pull the plastic and take the bike to a carwash or use a degreaser like GUNK or one of the "Formula 409 like products. Wallymart has a concentrated version called Purple Power that runs about seven bucks for a gallon.This is diluted. Straight out of the jug is a little bit strong. I use it on my wheels diluted 100%


For areas that are recessed or complex shapes if the Meguirs works for you, the compound can be applied and scrubbed in with a synthetic bristle paintbrush. The brush can be modified some by doing what is called bridling. The how to on this will be on Google or Utube. Easy to do.

 

If you want to be real lazy, and only need it to last for bike night. Spray it with tire shine crap, then wash your bike. I used the stuff in the white can from Dollar General. (Don't spray your tires - just the engine, and hoses). It works.