Place to get good sand/bead blasting media

[GNandTTA]

Anybody know of a good (cheap) place to get media for sand/bead blasting. I already know of Eastwood. Just wondering if there are any other places.

 

[Red Regal T]

If you're looking for sand, you can get 40# bags of silica sand at the home depot.

By the way, watch what you sand or media blast. Body parts such as hoods for example WILL warp.

 

[GNandTTA]

Thanks John, good idea! I'm getting my intake Jet Hot coated. But I need to get rid of the rough casting before sending it to them. I've read that for aluminum it is best to bead blast. Or can I use silica sand for this?

 

[Red Regal T]

I'm no expert on particle blasting (fear experts ), but I can't believe you can hurt that intake manifold with the silica sand. Probably the cheapest way to go with no down sides.

Wait a minute, I should read before I answer. Rough casting? Sand smooth with sandpaper wherever you can before you get it coated.

 

[turboman38]

Glass beeds work great on aluminum parts. I did a set of GN valve covers and they came out great. I've also heard for delicate parts like chrome or polished oxidized aluminum ground up walnut shells work well. I have not used walnut shells but have a friend that swears by them.

You can get glass beeds at Harbor freight. If you want walnut shells let me know an I will find out where to get them.

 

[Kevin Turch]

Eastwood sells all that media.