DIY Soda Blasting

I have sent several batches of parts to a soda blasting service, and been very happy with the results (see here). However, for a couple of reasons I decided that it would be nice to have the capability at home.

There is a fair amount of information on the web, but I never could find a clear guide that fit my needs and circumstances.  Here I will document what worked well for me.

Plastic Repair

Recent progress on Ella has been slow, as usual, but I figure if it hasn't come to a complete halt, then everything is ok ;-).

The top-end machine work is done and should be shipped back from Rennsport Systems next week.  They also are doing a distributor rebuild for me.

I also shipped out my mufflers for a Fister Stage 3 conversion and ceramic coat -- I can't wait to see how they look and even more how they sound!

That stuff will all be back before I am ready to start re-assembly -- the list of "while I'm in there" tasks to do is still long.  One item on that list was repairing a cracked plastic wheel liner and a broken under-body tray.

The under-body tray (Porsche part number 99350412900) was functional and out of sight, so I couldn't justify the $300 to replace it.  However, I also didn't like it being broken.  Last year I fixed my kids' plastic slide using fiberglass tape and plastic epoxy, and I figured the same would work on this part.  Here are a few before and after photos.

Jeepin'

Last week I experienced a different aspect of automotive enthusiasm: off-road driving.  We had tons of fun exploring the trails around Ouray, CO with family and friends.



Click on to see some shots from our excursions near Ouray, CO.

Maximum Dis-assembly?

I hope so!  Ella's engine has been torn down to the crankcase, so if much more is done that means a complete engine rebuild.

Here are a few photos to commemorate the occasion.

993 Engine Photos

Having some fun with the camera...

Parts Clean-up: Soda blasting

I read about soda blasting online, and it seemed a good fit for some of my parts cleaning needs.  As I understand it, soda blasting is (one of) the least abrasive forms of media blasting.  It is safe for rubber, plastic and painted surfaces.  It also dissolves in water, so removing the residue is easy.  

Porsche 993 AC Belt Size

Properly sizing the AC belt on the 993 seems to be problematic.  I have tried two belts, one of which was barely long enough and the other was impossible to make fit.  I think the problem is two-fold.  First, I think the Porsche spec calls for a belt that is a little too short.  Second, some vendors sell a belt as compatible for this application, but it has a different tooth design and will not fit.