Robbieandrew Posted April 5, 2013 Report Share Posted April 5, 2013 A lot of the aluminium on my calypso is looking a bit tired (mast, boom, beams etc) and I want to try get it looking a bit more sexy. What's the best way to get it looking nice and shiney again? Is there anything to avoid? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
seabreeze Posted April 5, 2013 Report Share Posted April 5, 2013 cripes whatever you do dont drop any mercury on it, will burn a hole straight through it, don't sand with to coarse a grade of sandpaper, leaves scratches, using a green kitchen scourer is best, and, most importantly phosphuric acid is the only answer for any aluminium, 5083, anodised or whatever - find it in , say, rainex or ceptone rust remover being from any auto shop, paint on diluted say about 50% with water, leave about 20 mins and then hose rinse off well, further, you could then paint it with clear spray laquer, top coat to car paint being avaiable in spray cans at auto shop too for extra pizzaz good luck Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CTMD Posted April 6, 2013 Report Share Posted April 6, 2013 Aluminium wheel cleaner spray from your local auto shop. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Robbieandrew Posted April 8, 2013 Author Report Share Posted April 8, 2013 So I've read that sanding is a bad idea, what about applying a sort of polishing compound with a buffing wheel too? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
whollsee Posted April 8, 2013 Report Share Posted April 8, 2013 I think the problem with any compound containing grit is that it will compromise the the anodised finish. 3M aluminium restorer is fab on bare aluminium with a non-ferrous scourer then buffed. Don't use steel wool. I think they make a polish suitable for anodised too. I use marine penetrol as polish/sealer for all aluminium. It is real hard work to buff up to a shine but works a treat when you get there. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
cruiser Posted April 9, 2013 Report Share Posted April 9, 2013 you will need a 9" polisher, and some cotton wheels from the welding shop with aluminium wax. Be prepared to spend hours on it to get a mirror finish, and get very dirty. you need a respirator too!! I've done both stainless and ali to a professional finish, and i'm reluctant to do so ever again. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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