View Single Post
  #2 (permalink)  
Old 02-12-2007, 02:02 PM
mpierich mpierich is offline
Metal Finishing Guru
 
Join Date: Aug 2004
Posts: 774
mpierich is a glorious beacon of lightmpierich is a glorious beacon of lightmpierich is a glorious beacon of lightmpierich is a glorious beacon of lightmpierich is a glorious beacon of lightmpierich is a glorious beacon of light
Default Re: Aluminum Valve Cover Question

Quote:
Originally Posted by ptim
I'm trying to polish a set of Valve Covers, I have a couple of questions.

I'm seeing tiny pits in the aluminum, will they polish out or should I quit wasting my time.
Pay close attention to the "pits".. If you see more "pits" the more you sand, it's bubbles in the metal. Stop sanding.

Quote:
Originally Posted by ptim
Its getting pretty smooth and shiney, I can see myself, but its not a mirror like finish, also, will the aluminum get a chrome finish.
It will get close to chrome, done properly. Usually it's enough to take it to 400 or 600 grit, then emery compound, then maybe tripoli and finish with white rouge.

Quote:
Originally Posted by ptim
At this point which compound should I continue to use, I have black, brown, green and white.
See above. Also read the polishing manual on this site.

Quote:
Originally Posted by ptim
Also, how much compound should I use on the pads.
A quick jab or two at the spinning wheel is all you need every few minutes.

Quote:
Originally Posted by ptim
I'm using a drill if it helps. Thanks
Kind of slow but it can be done. A motor with 8" wheel would be better.

Good luck.
Reply With Quote