Vapor Vapour or Aqua Blasting, Is it worth the expense?

[Sandblaster]

I had a customer come in a few weeks ago and showed him some of the examples of parts that we have vapor blasted.
He said that he could do just as good with his friends bead blaster using very fine beads and holding the nozzle at a 45 degree angle to the blasted surface.
So, I handed him a old 95 KX250 cylinder and said to do your very best job.
When he brought it back to me I laughed inside knowing what a difference it would be.
So, before I did anything I took a pic of it.
Then I spend a little time in the Vapor Blaster.
Here is the difference.

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[Sandblaster]

You could say that this is the hub of our vapor blasting activity

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87 CR500 crankcase glass blasted vs vapor blasted.

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Rebuilding a 2001 RM250

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[Sandblaster]

I just had a customer ask me the following questions:

"I was sent information about Vapor Blasting. I am curious about a couple things. It looks like you have had time since your last post over a year ago to see how this lasts. What was the outcome and what is your opinion after having some time to see how it lasts? It looks amazing when its new and fresh."


It's been over a year since we first got the machine and it's been wonderful.
I am so glad I bought it.
Yes, it does an amazing job of cleaning.
But, how long does it last?
Frankly, there is no easy answer on that.
If you take a new bike, park it in the garage with a tarp over it for 30 years and then remove the tarp, it will look like new!
But take that same bike, ride it hard, never wash it, and what will it look like in 30 years? Not so good.
A lot of how Vapor Blasting will perform will depend on your maintenance.
Do you wash it? Do you use harsh abrasives or strong cleaners?
All that being said, the surface finish of the part is generally smoother and less porous with a Vapor Blasted finish.
So, it cleans easier then a non vapor blasted finish as the dirt and grim sticks to is less.
Therefore, your motor under the same treatment and circumstances will stay looking newer long with a Vapor Blasted finish then without.
All that being said, the dirt and grime will not magically fall off your bike... It still requires that you clean it.
If you use a SOFT bristle brush and warm soapy water with a mild detergent like Dawn dish washing soap you will get the longest lasting finish.
If you use a wire wheel and Acid based cleaners you can ruin the finish in one wash.

As for me, ALL my parts get Vapor Blasted... For me there is no down side

[dirk_411]

Love the looks of them parts you do. Someday I'd like an engine like that

[Sandblaster]

Send me all your aluminum...
I'm thinking about doing some specials, like Vapor blasting all the aluminum, lapping and porting the case, sprocket guard tower repairs, and drain plug repairs, for a package deal.
I guess I need to sit down and actually come up with some prices...

[dirk_411]

That sounds like a sweet package deal. Exactly what a restoration needs

[Sandblaster]

Here is your carburetor on mud and grease..

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Here is your carburetor on acid..

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Here is your carburetor on Vapor Blasting...

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Any questions?