Polishing and Buffing Aluminum

[IZRSSS]

Any pics of the '68 RS/SS?

[tom]

Did you read this tread: http://www.camaros.org/forum/index.php?topic=6095.0;all

[IZRSSS]

Tom, are you referring to Flash-Chrome?

I polished & buffed (power p & b) my window moldings & they look great.  As I am certain you know these are also stainless.  At some point I would like to try Flash-Chrome but at this time I do not think its necessary.

My question concerns aluminum, and please correct me if I'm wrong but I don't think you can use this same application on aluminum. 

Or is there something else on this thread I missed?

[tom]

I was thinking the flash chrome. Or maybe I just wasn't really thinking....

[IZRSSS]

Nice to know you guys are human

[IZRSSS]

I Would Like to here from a ACAA Judge on this topic.
Or even better From Lucas Restoration Since they prepaired that Fantastic "Top Flight" 68 RS/SS that was at the
2010 Camaro Nationals @ Carlisle.

Wouldn't we all?

[noschevys]

Hi, I'm the owner of the Grotto Blue 68 SS/RS Camaro.  Plainly put, all aluminum parts should be polished, than a caustic bath is used to remove old anodizing, than re anodizing.  Hopes this helps.

[68camaroz28]

Hi, I'm the owner of the Grotto Blue 68 SS/RS Camaro.  Plainly put, all aluminum parts should be polished, than a caustic bath is used to remove old anodizing, than re anodizing.  Hopes this helps.

Hi Keith! Just wondering if the above is correct or that the caustic bath would be first before polishing?

[noschevys]

I'm currently restoring the headlamp bezels for a 68 RS grille.  First step is to remove all paint and primer.  With that removed, you will notice the entire part is anodized.  You cannot successfully anodize on top of anodizing.  Next remove any dings or dents in the bezel.  Lightly sand in various stages the area that will be polished to remove any scratches etc.  Polish in different stages.  This process removed any anodizing in the area that is not painted on the finished part.  Next remove all remaining anodizing with the caustic bath.  Re-anodize the parts.  Lightly sand the areas to be painted, prime and paint to match the center sections of the grille.  Wipe and polish the anodized finished section.