Re: getting alpha drive to bare aluninum
Yes, glass beading is similar to sand blasting.<br /><br />The more modern term is media blasting. <br />Usually silica sand (not so much any more because of silicosis) or some other cutting medium like "Tuff Kut" is used and is quite abrasive. Because the leg is made from aluminum using a medium such as sand or tuff kut will eat away at the aluminum.<br /><br />Using a milder medium like glass beads, walnut shells or some of the plastic type medium will take off the paint and oxidation but will not blast off any aluminum.<br /><br />Before doing this make sure to tape off "ALL" openings and holes. You do not want the media, whatever you use, inside the leg.<br /><br />Hope this helps.<br /><br />Jeff
