Hey guys I'm in the process of doing a frame off on my 70 w30. I picked up a huge glass bead machine that's large enough to put a small person in. Lol. Never the less.... I have plenty of parts off the car that need to be done I.e control arms, front suspension parts, calipers, etc to get ready for paint. My question is what do you recommend to use as far as grit on this glass bead. I want something heavy enough to take the nasties off, but not so abusive that it really beats the parts up to the point that it pits it and makes for a crappy final product. What has everyone used who's been where I am now??

 

I use size 8 glass beads from Zero Blast Co.

It is a great all around size that won't pit, but I remove the heavy build up stuff first before basting.

 

I buy number 10 glass for my dry-honer
united surface prep is my source
63cents a pound plus tax or shipping
they have 16,000lbs available
you can use my account if you pay by credit card


if the inlet to your machine is 3/4inch or more
you better have a large CFM air compressor

 

For heavy metal suspention type parts, I still like to sand blast, which I'm sure is cheaper than glass beads.

 

I use the glass beads from Harbor Freight. They are the least expensive I have found in my area. (and I use their 25% off coupons)

x2 on sand blasting parts with a lot of rust or corrosion on them. Lowes sells a 100 lb bag of sand blasting media for less than $10.00.

 

I trust you have a decent compressor (big azz) and a good water trap to assure dry air..

 

That's something I have not seen around here at the 3 Lowes in my area. Do you have a SKU or maybe some other info? What type of media?

 

If you have a Tractors Supply in
your area they carry the glass beads as well.

 

Sorry, I don't. I came across it quite by accident one day when I was buying some play sand for blasting. After I had paid for it, the clerk says 'did youi know we carry sand blasting sand?". I'm thinking, you might have mentioned that before I bought this stuff............. anyway, it is stocked in the same area as the sand and ready mix bags. Very non-descript big tan paper bag. Works great, very clean material, unlike regular sand. I can get you a sku number next time I am in there if you don't find it.

 

An SKU would be handy for me too, thanks!

 

Sorry it took so long - finally got to Lowes today. This is the info for the blasting media:

#30 100lb. Silica Sand $7.82
Item #154403

Happy Blasting!