[TowerTalk] Cleaning Aluminum

[WA3GIN]

Earlier this summer there was a discussion about cleaning antenna aluminum... 

I  had great results using 3M All Purpose Contour Surface Sanding Pads - medium and fine grade.  

I used NAPA Engine Parts Cleaner Spray applied to the tubing first, let stand for a minute or two then just whip with the sanding pad, almost like washing the elements.  The NAPA product broke down the 20 yrs old oxidation almost instantly, old anti-seize just wiped away.  Then used a clean rag to clean the excess gunk from the tubing leaving a smooth machine shop grade surface. I've tried the other techniques mentioned with good results but this combo eliminated the elbow grease requirement!  The antenna I used for this test was an old Mosley 48Ft log antenna that was installed for over 15yrs in a very polluted city on the east coast...

73,
dave
wa3gin