302 Valve Cover refinish

[69Z28-RS]

Thanks James...      now we know.. 

[X33RS]

Thanks James,

That sounds exactly like the wheel cleaner I found/use that I described earlier.  Your process is very similar to mine.  Pic looks good.

[Hans L]

Hans, great looking but wonder why the bell housing bolts not painted? Simple fix!
On valve covers does it not seem many of these restored valve covers look too much like a alum intake and that is not what I remember or have seen on survivors. I have a pair of nos with dated box Jan1970 and they have a type of smooth kind of satin look, not shiny, but not that alum intake look either. Skips 09D late Z have same look, that being of a smooth not dull not shiny look.

Good catch!   Yes, the bellhousing bolts will be painted before the subframe is installed to the body.  Had to buy the Seymour Orange Paint that Jerry used to ensure an exact match. 

[169INDY]

People used to call the wheel cleaner which removed heavy brake dust - wheel acid and the reason I say that is because it said on it do not use on Aluminum wheels, will discolor and damage finish. 
I can't remember the product which was "wheel acid"-


Link to product

https://www.eagleone.com/etching-mag-wheel-cleaner

[JKZ27]

I remember wheel acid being used in the clean up department at some dealerships. I think I used it on an intake once and it turned out very bright, silvery-white, but not shiny.
They would get the wheel acid in bulk. It was clear, had an acidic smell, and when used with a spray bottle the mist would make you cough.

[L78 steve]

Anyone know which acid?