Polishing aluminum

[Jimmyvonviggle]

What is the best way to polish aluminum. I was thinking about doing it to some engine parts.

[Michael]

I once polished a few aluminium pieces on one of my sportbikes...worst mistake ever. It looked great for a week or so, then when I washed it or if it ever got wet, I would have to go over every piece again. Polished aluminium will oxidize very quickly, even in humid weather. Unless you are going to clear over it, I would not do it.

[Jimmyvonviggle]

Ok thanks, maybe I will just scrub it down with a metal brush and some de greaser.

[SS Spoiler]

Start with 80 grit flap wheel sanders. Work your way down to the finer grits, then go on to finer and finer polishing grits.
Even if it dulls up it still gives the engine a touch of class. Go for it!

[Josh]

Cast aluminum is much, much, much more difficult to polish than regular sheet aluminum. Lots of time and elbow grease is needed. You must sand the surface smooth, then begin the polishing process. It must be clear coated or else corrosion will occur.

Eastwood sells a 'chrome" powdercoat. It is somewhat reflective, similar to a dull polish. Perhaps this would be the easiest way to achieve what you are going for.

[WelmoedJ]

What is the best way to polish aluminum. I was thinking about doing it to some engine parts.

If your thinking of doing the valve covers, you can glass bead blast them, then use a heat resistant aluminum spray paint.
Hoever you'll need to take them off.
I've done that in 2009 and the covers still look as new.

The intake manifold however is somewhat harder to do as others previously have mentioned (elbow grease etc).

After bead blasting make sure no residu is left as it is harmful to the engine.

[Dangermouse]

You may want to check out the Airstream trailer forums. They probably know a trick or too. :tongue:

I caught a program last night on RV Trailers and they said it took them 400 hours to polish a 40' Airstream.