aluminum wheels

[MADMAXX]

I'm looking for all show quality

[sswee]

I've been having good results sanding to 600 then starting with spirel/brown. If the part doesn't have many bad places on it, I start at 400 or 600 wet. Then backup on the problem areas and do around them just big enough to feather in to where it don't show a divot when it is shined out.

[MADMAXX]

What should I use to maintain after its done?
I've only used mothers so far but I think unbuffed parts are part of the reason for some of the marks.

[sswee]

Mothers or a good carnuba wax. It's an on going process. I anodize most of the parts I do.

[mcaswell]

ZoopSeal is the ultimate protection. http://www.caswellplating.com/buffs/zoopseal.html

Protect all your polished aluminum, stainless steel and chrome parts from oxidation and eliminate the need for repeat polishing. A kit covers 75 square feet. Easy to apply when following the instructions provided. Formulated for use on cars, trucks, boats motorcycles, engines, wheels and interior accessories. When applied properly ZoopSeal™ will:

A hybrid ceramic sealer that protects finishes for up to two years.

Prevent dulling and oxidation
Retain the polished brightness and luster of aluminum
Eliminate the need for repeat polishing
Be long lasting
Will work on aluminum, brass, and stainless steel
Be safe to use and environmentally friendly

[mpierich]

I'm sure Zoop is a good product, but why would I want to have to strip it and possibly re-polish every two years?

[MADMAXX]

What happens when you have zoop seal on something and you get something on it, how do you clean it?

[MADMAXX]

So I just went thru my strut bar I can give myself a dental exam with it.
I started out at 60grit and took 8 steps to 2000grit all with the 3D sander. Thanks for the help pickleboy. So you was right about the swirl marks, but since I went all the way to 2000grit the compound got them out easy.
When I used the brown compound I could see some of the swirls so I went the oppisite way then after 3 passes they came out. Then I polished it again cleaned it off then went to the white after 6 passes cleaned it off and wheewww cover your eyes.
I'm gonna go crazy with this buffer. By the way think this is to powerful a buffer 8" 1.5 h.p. 3450 rpm 120/240 Volts 7.0/3.5 amps 60 hz? I think it needs a variable speed switch.
THANKS FOR ALL YOUR HELP EVERYONE

[mcaswell]

Originally Posted by mpierich

I'm sure Zoop is a good product, but why would I want to have to strip it and possibly re-polish every two years?

You'd rather re-polish it every two weeks??

[mcaswell]

Originally Posted by MADMAXX

What happens when you have zoop seal on something and you get something on it, how do you clean it?

From the webpage:

What type of cleaners can be used on Zoopseal?
NO CAUSTIC OR ALKALINE CLEANERS. Only Zoops Cleaner is to be used on the product