Magnesium or Aluminum

[Gnasha]

Hi, I propose to cut and weld a alternator stand to support my upright conversion. I'm told some stands have more magnesium and would be difficult to weld, where as an all aluminum stand would be better.

Q. how can I tell the difference?

This is me first post, thanks for reading.
John

[BugUgly]

Scrape off a bit and touch it with a match. If it flares and sears the backs of your eyeballs, it's magnesium.
You can test it with vinegar, too. If it fizzes, it's Mg.

[Lo Cash John]

http://www.weld.com/index.php/en/magnes ... minum.html

[BugUgly]

Heh...I think that's the site where I first learned about the vinegar. There's some good stuff on there.

And on here:
http://www.weldingtipsandtricks.com/