MK5 GTI tailpipes - can't get them clean!

[jaydubveedub]

Trying to get the tailpipes clean on my MK5 GTI. They had over 2 years worth of carbon and crap on them.

Started off using Autosol, which got some of the muck off. Then started with some fine wire wool with autosol on - pretty good. Then I resorted to bilberry, which got some more of the crap off.

Still can't shift the really stubborn carbon deposits at the bottom of the pipes - any suggestions?

I'm thinking about using some slightly harsher wire wool.

[stealthwolf]

This is what I do (copy-and-pasted from one of my previous posts):

1. Spray engine degreaser in and around the exhaust tips. Leave for a good while.
2. Agitate with brush (I use a cheapo alloy brush from halfrauds), wipe.
3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 several times.
4. Start the car up and gently dab the throttle to get rid of any remaining loose crap.
5. Clean using WD40 and MF cloth
6. Dry with cloth and apply polish
7. Work polish using 00-grade wirewool if necessary
8. Work polish using green side of washing up sponge if necessary
9. Work polish using MF cloth
10. Buff off with clean MF cloth

[Conker]

Still can't shift the really stubborn carbon deposits at the bottom of the pipes - any suggestions?

Maybe try some tar/solvent remover first.  Halfords sell the Autoglymn version which is a bit weedy, but okay.

[jaydubveedub]

Luckily I already have some of the AG tar remover. I'll try some of that then attack it with some neat bilberry again.