[No MSG]

I got a pair of black M540 LX cranks off Ebay. They have signicant shoe rub scuffing.

I want to take off the annodized finish and have a smooth (not brushed) aluminum finish. I heard that over cleaner would work, but some say that it will weaken the aluminum...is this true? If it is, what are my alternatives: steel wool, power drill wire brush, sandpaper?

Anyone have any suggestions on some good techniques? Thanks.

 

[gopriest31]

Eagle one

Eagle one etching mag wheel cleaner will make annodizing run off like watercolor paint- I've used it many times with great success

http://www.eagleone.com/pages/products/product.asp?itemid=1001&cat=5006

 

[galleywench]

I've heard that oven cleaner does the job as well.
http://forums.mtbr.com/showthread.php?t=247577&highlight=oven+cleaner

 

[Welsh Dave]

From Fixed Gear Gallery:

http://www.fixedgeargallery.com/articles/polishing/

 

[miSSionary]

I did this last night, tried the most powerful paint stripper I could find...No luck! Used the oven cleaner for like 10min. washed off, repeated...WOW...it actually worked!! Crappy pic, great process with the easy off oven cleaner and steel wool!!

 

[Speedub.Nate]

Easy-Off worked great for me. I destroyed these cranks shortly thereafter, but it was the painted spider that bent, not the crank arm. A second set I did this to is running strong.

Anodization does make for a hard, protective finish, but bare aluminum will generate an oxide layer that serves a similar (though not as hardy) protective function.

https://forums.mtbr.com/showthread.php?t=130059