First parts and some questions

[griffsfsr]

Hello,
I have been working on a few parts for my car. This is the first time I have really done this. I have always just used the mothers and rag method. This time I used greasless compounds and polishing compounds and got something that I think looks pretty nice. I was wondering about longevity of the finish. I posted some of the work on a car forum and someone asked about how long it would last. It is a heat shield for a turbo car. I thought I remember hearing that the smoother you get the finish the longer the shine will last. Is there any truth to that. I know I could powdercoat it, but I have not been able to find a high temp clear yet. I will post a picture below. I have also read about polishing steel, I don't really see if this would be worth the effort, will the part not just rust? I have been reading this site on and off for a bit and value your experience and knowledge so comments are welcome.

Link to image. It is to big to post.
http://www.dsmtalk.com/gallery/data/...m/PICT0177.JPG

Thanks,
Chris G.

[jimcarry]

On this part like parts that I have plated or just polished for my own car I would use zoop seal it works great on high temp part and will help to protect the part from rust and other elements
another great product I am using is glare both are sold by Caswells

[fly]

Man that sure is good work, I wish I had you in my buffing shop.

[griffsfsr]

Thank you for the comments and suggestions. I have heard good things about zoop seal although this is the first time I have heard about Glare. In my internet travels I came across a Clear POR 15. Has any one heard of it and tryed it? I looked at the part last night and it had started to surface rust. I was surprised to see this since it had sat in my car for almost three weeks with no rust. I worked on sanding the part more a couple of days ago, even those areas had some rust. I think it might possibly be from touching it. It has been really hot here lately and I was sweating a bunch. Thank you again for the comments.