Polishing Aluminium

[sprints@pldi.net]

I think BMW used a host of different aluminum alloys - I find that my cylinders and heads stay very bright after blasting but the cases and covers turn dingy. Several of the other parts have some zinc in them and when I blast them they the allow turns so hot it blisters. I think this time I'm going to paint my cases, covers, and trans to they stay bright.
I've downloaded hundreds of photos from eBay and no matter how nice the bike has been freshened up the cases are always dingy looking - just my personal preference

[Zombie Master]

Try wiping aluminum paint on a rag then gently wipe it off.

[SteveD]

Try wiping aluminum paint on a rag then gently wipe it off.

ala gspd...He would make the point to rub it on from the rag, not to spray directly onto the metal then rubbing it in.

[Zombie Master]

I've tried them all....just sayin.

Vapor blasting?
The best finish I've seen on airhead alloy.

I was just recommending a polishing product.

[ME 109]

I was just recommending a polishing product.

What's the rub man, I was just asking if you knew of vapor blasting.

[Rob]

Oh, I get it, "rub"...

I had to Google vapor blasting. Never heard of it, before.
Everybody is jumping on the vape wagon, these days!

[Zombie Master]

Vape this, vape that....I think you're all stoned, and talk funny.

[Ken in Oklahoma]

I have polished aluminum, and used various products successfully. But the thing is, polished aluminum, no matter how you do it, will gradually dull. It's called oxidation. You can cover the perfectly polished aluminum with some variety of clear coat, but then the clear coat eventually 'yellows' from sunlight.

Don't get me wrong. I'm not against polishing aluminum. I have a good buffing setup and I know how to use it. I too enjoy a nice bright aluminum surface. I just don't get sad as it dulls.

Ken

[Mottseng]

Thanks to all for the information. The bike really needs a good polishing. I agree that eventurally it will dull however having a good base starting point makes it much easier to keep up with. When done I should be able to show pre and post pics.

[Zombie Master]

I don't know what Ken is talking about. Once polished, it only takes a moment to bring it back. With Simichrome it's only half a moment.

BTW I have no financial interest in the Simichrome. The product is just that good.