A fine microstructure stabilised by dispersed particles is an interesting option for increasing the resistance of Al-Sn tribo-alloys without sacrificing ductility. Particle stimulated and continuous recrystallisation allow achieving this goal, but require careful preconditioning of the microstructure to obtain the desired particle distribution. As-cast slabs of Al 12%Sn2%Pb3%Si contain large plates of beta-AlFeSi and modified silicon in an aluminium matrix. Sn forms a reticular network which is liquid at conventional annealing temperatures. Experiments show that metastable beta-AlFeSi initially coarsens due to Ostwald ripening, but later dissolves and the remainder transforms into FeSiAl12. Silicon partitions to the liquid, allowing the nucleation of numerous small Si-grains.