VHT-Clear or Glisten PC for polished aluminum protection?

[Great_Scott]

I'm trying to restore the aluminum engine covers on a 1985 Harley Davidson to their original factory appearance of highly polished aluminum by first stripping what remains of the factory clearcoat and then polishing.

I think I'd be best off to apply a new clearcoat once the polishing is finished to protect them but I'm not sure so I'm looking for advice on this one.

Do I clearcoat them (pro & con replies appreciated) and if so, would I be best off with VHT-Clear or Glisten PC?

I don't want to loose any of the brillance from the polished look and spraying direct from a can seems much more tempting than brushing a coating on. Also not sure if engine heat will have a bad effect on the Glisten PC coating but from what I've read about the VHT-Clear, the engine heat shouldn't be a problem for it.

Sorry for the short book and really appreciate all feedback.

[mcaswell]

Re: VHT-Clear or Glisten PC for polished aluminum protection

Yes, clearcoating tends to work well.

We recommend the VHT over the POR. You can heat cure the VHT and should not get any haze etc.

[Great_Scott]

Re: VHT-Clear or Glisten PC for polished aluminum protection

OK so VHT-Clear it is, what is the process for "Heat Curing" as you mentioned?

Thanks in advance,

[mcaswell]

Re: VHT-Clear or Glisten PC for polished aluminum protection

Actually, you just ride the bike for an hour or so. The heat from the engine will cure the VHT.

[Great_Scott]

Re: VHT-Clear or Glisten PC for polished aluminum protection

Could you also put the part in an oven at a low temp (say 200 degrees) and bake it that way before placing the part on the bike?

Also how long does it take for the finish to "bake"?

Thanks in advance

[mcaswell]

Re: VHT-Clear or Glisten PC for polished aluminum protection

Yes you definately can. There are actually instructions on the VHT cans about how to do this. You start at a low temp and gradually increase temperature. The part can stay in for a few hours.