I'm partly venting and asking for some ideas.

So being as **** as I am, I had my engine bay steam cleaned. I primarily wanted the hard to reach areas to be cleaned. When I looked at my engine bay after the guy was done, . My heart just sank. I had a new A/C delco a/c compressor that had a nice finish, the cleaning took off the finish and left a blotching F!@#!^* ugly finish. Other metal components also had an ugly finish after. Some of the parts I know I can polish. The a/c compressor however I believe polishing won't do anything. I tried it and it didn't change anything. Does anybody have any ideas? Painting maybe? Any body else have a bad steam cleaning experience?

 

What was the finish on it? Just a clear coat, or was it chrome or something...?

 

It seems as if it could've been a very thin coat of paint. But it almost looked anodized. Color was almost like a black. See the attached pic. Now it looks more like acid fell on it and it is blotchy in appearance. sorry don't have a pic yet. geeze, if I had only know before.

 

What do you mean by polish? Did you try aluminum polish? I would think for sure that would do the trick. If nothing works, you can always wet sand with 2000 grit and then use aluminum polish.

 

I used mothers polish but had no effect. The paint, stain, color, what ever it is seemed to be impregnated into the metal. So I think, you may be right about the wet sand.
Dam.
Thanks for the suggestion, I may have to do that.

 

You can repaint it or buy a chrome shroud for it if you want that polished chrome look.

 

they said on motorweek the smaller steam particles can seep through wiring insulation and cause corrosion

 

Ok I'm restoring the same type engine compartment. If you are trying to restore the black color. Do a good tape job and use a "good" rattle can. Rustoleum Semi Flat black be sure to clean with a good degreaser. As far as the aluminum, that part could be fixed with very fine steel wool. It will give a shiny but brushed look. The only thing to worry about with this is to watch the wire fibers. They have a tendency to go eveywhere.

 

Where's the problem?

 

Did you sign any kind of dis-claimer saying you wouldn't hold them responsible for any damages? Did they list anywhere how "safe" the chemicals they used are? Was it a professional business, or a kid down the street? I would be considering having them compensate for the damages.