[Private_collector]

Hi Gary,

I agree with degreasing followed by a chemical strip. Sandblasting could prove to be very bad indeed. Though I have not yet tried soda blasting, I have been informed that the 'grit' residue is completely disolved by washing off with virtually any liquid, including petrol or turpentine. Is not greatly expensive, and may be viable if you factor in time you will spend to clean engine by physical means. The transport to/from blasting site may not be easy, so a DIY clean might suit you better. Also, I can't stress enough that all my knowledge about soda blasting does NOT include first hand experience. I would be keen to try this type of blasting, and a new business has just opened up in town. Must find something replaceable to give them as a test for future work, then I can speak from experience!

I do think you would get quite reasonable results from degrease, strip, and maybe even followed up with a wire wheel on grinder. You could possibly find some of the paint may be more sound than you had initially feared! Just be sure to remove every last bit of paint stripper before going any further. A rub by hand with a scotchbrite pad (abrasive scouring pad) will take care of that. If you choose to do via this method, I apologise in advance for the scarred knuckles & paint stripper burns.

Do you have a photo which is fairly representable of the state of engine block currently?

All the best,