Re: Gale 5hp crankshaft

[billw]

The same thing happens to the crank when a rod lunches on a Tecumseh power equipment engine. Rather than go after it immediately with abrasive, I use muriatic acid to melt away the deposited aluminum. Disclaimer: Do not even THINK of doing this inside and be very cautious doing it outside. Use rubber gloves. The fumes are very, VERY strong, while the acid is actually working. After it calms down, you can wipe with a rag and repeat, until you have a good crank. Finish up with some 400, if you want. You can get muriatic acid at most hardware stores and home centers.

Long live American manufacturing!