Can you sandblast pistons???

[TiradoCC]

Just a quick question....I have a set of 2g pistons that I plan on using with 1g rods, the top of the pistons have alot of carbon build up and I was wondering if I can sand blast that off without damaging the piston. I have access to a sandblaster.....
Thanks.

 

[jeremy19984g63]

Don't sandblast, soak them in the Industrial degreaser (Purple Power) Good stuff. Its what I soak heads in before rebuilding them.

 

[95 gsx]

Yes, just protect the sides and bottom from any particles. Wrap the side of the piston near the top edge with electrical tape (a couple layers) then find some way to seal in the rest of the piston. I was able to wedge it into a koozie. You know, those things you put your can of pop in? It was stretched out and wouldnt accept my bud light afterwards though, which lead to a situation where my drink of choice had to be consumed quickly, or else it would get warm.

A wire wheel also works.

And apparently so does a chemical bath. ^^

 

[numlock666]

buy a couple of bottles of brake fluid and soak em in it for a couple days. And brush it off. Also try Seafoam.

 

[TiradoCC]

Here is one I started to sandblast....what do you guys think?
The other piston is what it used to look like

 

[jeremy19984g63]

I hope no small sand particles got in around the wrist pin! or are you planning on taking them a part?


Ok Ok, you are putting them on 1g rods, So your good.

 

[TiradoCC]

yes I plan on taking them to a machine shop and putting them on 1g rods and getting new piston rings.....

 

[jeremy19984g63]

Ok, but think about soaking them in something to get the carbon out of the ring grooves

 

[TiradoCC]

Thanks for the help......

 

[x3whlmotion240]

looks good

 

[tqmx1]

To be safe use walnut shell blast. Much safer the resdue can be washed off with water and does not remove any metal. Both sand & glass leave bits inbeded in the piston.

 

[TiradoCC]

I will finish sandblasting them tomorrow and post pics...

 

[Defiant]

Well, lots and lots of surface for the next layer of carbon to get a good grip on. I'd have steered you to media blasting, but it's a bit late now.