"Hal Rosser" wrote in message
.. .

I agree with the NoAlox but I reserve comment about drilling out the holes
until you clean it first to see if it needs drilling out.
You can pick up NoAlox, or Penetrox in the electrical dept of Lowes or
Home Depot, or at an Electrical Supply house like Graybar. It is used by
electricians when making electrical connections with Aluminum wire. It
contains an abrasive to cut through the oxide, and the grease to coat the
aluminum and keep O2 from it.

These compounds actually contain irregular particles of zinc which is a
superior metal for contact with aluminum. Hal is otherwise correct.

Ian is also correct about avoiding the use of steel wool with aluminum.
Invariably, you will get fine steel particles imbedded in the aluminum which
will promote the corrosion of the aluminum.

If screws go through the holes in the aluminum, use heavily galvanized
hardware to minimize future corrosion. For steel screws, heavy cadmium
plating is ideal, but due to its toxicity, is getting more difficult to
find.

73, Dr. Barry L. Ornitz WA4VZQ