I have an aluminum intake that I can't seem to get clean. It doesn't have any oil or girime it just doesn't look clean. As if it had some sort of oxidation. What is the best way to clean it?

 

if u can take it off have it sand blasted then clear coated. or u can try a wire wheel or wire brush.

 

You can try some aluminum wheel cleaner with muriatic acid in it alittle goes along way. Then top coat after it is dry .

 

If you want a truely factory appearance send it to Jerry MacNeish at Camaro-Highperformance. If it is in need of any repair he can handle that, too. Depending on what kind of intake it is (factory vs. aftermarket) the cost to re-furbish might be more than it's worth.
Jerry's work is the best and is has been judged as such.

 

I had mine glass beaded (sand is too violent). Every couple of months I wipe it down with GM heat riser lube #88862627. It gives it a nice natural sheen and keeps it from oxidizing. I love that stuff, it cleans and its the best lube I've tried. I use it on the alternator also.