Blasting media and cleaning parts

Have been cleaning the cast alloy part of USD forks that holds the front brake caliper in place for a GSXR 750 L model.
What worked really well was to first blast with Garnet then use Glass Beads. The first stuff really ripped the surface clean, I wouldn't use Garnet on smooth finish alloy, though. It's too abrasive. But then I used the Beads and they 'polished' the surface and gave it back the clean satin kind of sheen. Has really cleaned up these complex castings very easily. I used my cheap air compressor at home on a 'total loss' system, just swept it up afterwards and sifted it thru a kitchen sieve. Worked a treat and used it all again, what a blast!!!
I've just given the forks over to the Suzuki shop to disassemble so I can polish the upper alloy sleeve that goes into the triple clamps, so no pictures yet. I hope to get the parts back next week and will post a few photos then.
Rob

[slip]

Mate put up some details and pics of the setup, I'm bloody interested.

Hi Slip,
All going well at the bike shop, they said I should be able to get the fork tubes back by Thurs or Fri. So I hope to get a few photos up on Saturday to show the sequence.
Cheers

[slip]

Well I actually meant the media blasting setup... but yeah, cool.

Here is the setup I used. Compressor was bought from Supercheap Auto new for $98, blasting gun also from Supercheap for $15. Garnet from Hare & Forbes in Dandenong, $20 and Glass Beads from same place for $49. As you can see from the photos I have plenty left for other jobs. Just be sure to wear a decent face mask AND eye protection. I don't have a cabinet or enclosure so the blasting media basically goes everywhere. I put a big bit of black plastic down ($9 from Bunnings) so I can sweep it up then put it thru a sieve to ensure it is clean again for reuse.

http://www.streetfighters.com.au/forum/upload/54956636057328.jpg


http://www.streetfighters.com.au/forum/upload/54956636042562.jpg


http://www.streetfighters.com.au/forum/upload/54956636056187.jpg


http://www.streetfighters.com.au/forum/upload/54956636041749.jpg


http://www.streetfighters.com.au/forum/upload/54956636050774.jpg


http://www.streetfighters.com.au/forum/upload/54956636046015.jpg

This is the finished item, light is a bit brighter on this side so it is easier to see in this shot.

[slip]

Thats awesome, thanks mate.

[Hagarr]

My hardest working machine was always the bead blaster!!

Its where one can get instant results without a heap of elbow grease, gotta love that! It is also quite rewarding to see parts come back to a really clean surface, somewhat like the machine is getting healthy again!!