The most common question we get is, do I have to take my “whatever” it is apart?

The simple answer is, would you throw that engine, transmission, or greasy hub in a swimming pool? Of course not. We need everything removed and taken down: seals, bearings, bolts, plugs, and studs.

If you are unsure, please email us at parts@losangelesvaporblasting.com, including photos as needed, or request a phone call to discuss your issue.

There are some exclusions, like leaving bearings if you plan on removing them later.

What level of cleanliness should our sent parts achieve?

Under no circumstances do we process parts containing oil, grease, paint, gunk, sludge, sealants, or any substances that could pose a risk of hazardous waste when combined with water. Therefore, it is imperative that parts undergo thorough cleaning before we proceed with any processing.

In addition, it is essential that all gaskets and sealants be meticulously removed prior to vapor blasting, as these materials can interfere with the effectiveness of the process.

We strongly advise against the use of pry bars, screwdrivers, or other sharp tools during handling, as any surface damage caused by such tools will be apparent after vapor blasting.

While we do offer cleaning services utilizing ultrasonic tanks, it is important to note that most jobs require some level of mechanical and manual intervention to achieve the desired level of cleanliness. Please be aware that our cleaning services are priced at an hourly rate, and therefore, providing us with clean parts before processing is highly recommended to avoid additional costs.

We are committed to assisting you in determining the best cleaning method for your specific parts. Please do not hesitate to contact us to discuss the most suitable approach for your needs.

Please don’t do the following.

We kindly request that you refrain from the following practices:

Using wire wheels for cleaning: Wire wheels, while effective in some contexts, tend to leave small scratches on surfaces that become apparent after further processing. Therefore, we advise against their use for cleaning purposes.

Utilizing caustic chemicals: Chemicals with caustic properties can etch parts, causing damage and compromising their integrity. It is essential to avoid using such substances during cleaning to ensure the preservation of the parts.

Using undiluted or improperly rinsed “Green” Simple Green: While Simple Green can be a useful cleaning agent, the green variant if used undiluted or without thorough rinsing, has been known to cause damage to engines. Therefore, if you choose to use Green Simple Green, we strongly recommend diluting it appropriately and ensuring thorough rinsing to prevent any potential adverse effects.

By adhering to these guidelines, you contribute to maintaining the quality and integrity of the parts throughout the cleaning process. If you have any questions or require further clarification on suitable cleaning methods, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.

If repairs are needed.

Preceding the repair process, it is standard practice within our operations to vapor blast first. This initial step serves to ensure optimal conditions for repair work, particularly in tasks such as fin welding and similar processes. By subjecting the item to vapor blasting beforehand, we attain a meticulously clean surface which is great for precise and effective welding.

Following the completion of the repair work, another round of vapor blasting is undertaken. This post-repair vapor blasting serves the crucial purpose of meticulously cleaning the repaired item, eliminating any residual debris or imperfections that may have arisen during the repair process.

This meticulous approach not only ensures the integrity of the repair work but also upholds our commitment to delivering products of the highest quality standards. Should you require any further information or clarification regarding our vapor blasting procedures or repair processes, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.