Baking soda sand blaster?

[Onski326]

Just read up on guys using baking soda sand blasters instead of conventional blasters. Especially in and around engine parts. Anyone ever tried this? I've got an aluminum oxide only blaster and it's very $$$ to buy the medium for it. Like $70 for a 25lbs bag. And I've heard stories of leftover grit (aluminum/glass/sand) in engine parts wreaking havoc later on down the road whereas baking soda doesn't really leave a residue. So I'm thinking of giving this a shot and was just curious if anyone's ever tried it before and had any pointers?

[Deuce]

I havent used or made one yet, but I've been thinking about it too.  Seems like its the way to go with cleaning cases from what I've read

[Onski326]

That's kinda what I saw too. Some vintage bike guys were using it. Their engine pieces came out real nice. I don't think it's abrasive enough to strip paint although I'm sure it would if you sit on it long enough. I'll probably give it a try this weekend and see what happens.

[Pumashine]

I have used corn cob. Works pretty good but is a pain to clean out of the cabinet. The finish color is not the best.    When I get my cases back from the builder I always can feel sand  hitting my face when I rinse the cases the lacquer thinner and air. Especially over the holes where sand hangs out at the bottom.