Schabelmj

I could use some advice. I've been detailing the underside of my 87 911 targa, and all is coming out nicely except for the exhaust system. I'm not sure of what steps to take to remove the ubiquitous rust from the muffler and get into original-looking condition. Also, is there some finish I should apply to inhibit future rust growth? The muffler is now off the car (as I was repairing an oil leak from the tube supplying the oil pressure sending unit, which required removal of the AC bracket). The heat exchangers have shown promise in early cleaning efforts, but it looms like there is some finish over what appears to be stainless steel. Any ideas as to what the finish might be.

I'll post pics later.

dsmyth

I had mine glass beaded and then painted with flat paints. I thought it would be easier to keep clean, The glass beading dulled them slightly but took off all the crud.,however not the dents!!

2specs

Because of the heat you probably will only be able to find Hi Heat Flat Black and Hi Heat Aluminum for a true hi heat rating. I would guess the finish over top of your heat exchangers is probably Hi Heat Aluminum. If you try to put on a rust inhibitor it will burn off too unless there's some fandamble new product I don't know about.

GothingNC

Wow. that photo would make a great desktop wallpaper

I used flat black high heat BBQ paint on my muffler 5 years ago and it looks good without fading.

John

ivangene

WOW - I love the air-cooled motors

I never saw a water pumper that had any photogenic qualities.... THAT is a beauty!

Schabelmj

Dsmyth - very nice. I've been been scrubbing for quite some time, and my case looks nothing like yours. Any recommendations on going from "oil-free" to "mirror finish" would be a great technique to learn.

That said, please forgive my ignorance, but my muffler shows no signs of originally being black. I want to make sure I don't go down a road that would be a pain to come back from. I just want to keep my toy as close to orig as possible. I haven't come across any period pics of stock 3.2L, so I'm trying to be extra careful. Thanks!

dsmyth

Thanks for the nice comments guys. I used these cloth cleaning pads on an air hand buffer tool. The pads came in various sizes and shapes which was great for getting into all the nooks and crannies. I had the engine out on a stand completely stripped which made it easier. The pads came with a paste you rubbed on it that was designed for aluminum.
As for the muffler being stock flat black I may be wrong. I just presumed it was and never did the research. I would think that unless it was brand new you wouldnt want to leave it natural as the heat discolouration would possibly ruin the appearance. I like the flat black with the new stainless straps.
Here is a picture of the topside. Engine ****!!!