Polishing Aluminum Wheels

[rpen]

Ok, experienced polishers. I will mostly be polishing wheels (auto and big rigs). Also other car/engine parts. What's the best setup?

Handheld polisher? Drill? I was thinking of a 3/4 hp bench grinder with flex shaft for doing wheels in the shop, but that's not at all portable. What makes the quickest job?

Any suggestions/tips?

[mcaswell]

The BEST setup?....see http://www.caswellplating.com/buffs/lustre/marlin.html

It's a beautiful machine.

[rpen]

Ok, I set myself up for that. It is a beautiful machine ...BUT...
1. I will be doing this part time.
2. Cost IS a factor (don't have 12 grand). Would like to spend <$1000.
3. I also want to be able to polish other parts (engine parts/auto trim/etc).
Let me be more specifc. For under $1000, what would you (anyone) suggest that I buy to set myself up to be able to polish anything from auto parts/trim to rims to antiques. I'm doing this both as a hobby and source of extra income.

If you can (I know I'm asking a lot ) be specific about what tools you use to polish certain items. I've done some polishing before, mostly by hand, and that is just too much work for too little result.

Thanks.

[mcaswell]

I expect that for big jobs, most people here are using a handheld buffer with 6" wheels.

An electric drill works well too, with an arbor adapter and 4" wheels. The smaller wheels make the job go more slowly though.

[rpen]

Anyone else?

[Josh]

a variable speed dremel for the small antique parts will work well

[mcaswell]

I found a great resource for everyone. It specifically discusses polishing rims. The author is a customer of ours.

http://www.78ta.com/rims.htm

[CamaroMike]

polishing rims is easy once you get the hang of it. Heres one of my own. Please excuse the crappy paint it sucks I know, and I dont have hub caps cause I plan on painting all my rims when it gets warm enough to work on my car outside.But at least the polished part is good.

[rpen]

CamaroMike, what tools/methods do you use for polishing wheels?

[CamaroMike]

I use a air powered die grinder with 120,320 grit sanding rolls and tapered rolls. A da sander with 120,320 grit glue on back sanding disks. I used a bench grinder 3/4 horse I think. Then a 6" sisal polsihing wheel with black grease, then onto a 6" cloth sewn wheel with tripoli grease, and finaly finishing it off with a 6" loose buff.

[rpen]

CamaroMike...you use a bench grinder to polish wheels

[CamaroMike]

This is what I mean

[rpen]

I realize what you meant (a bench grinder with buffing wheels)...I was just wondering if you actually carry the rim and hold it up to the buffer?

[CamaroMike]

Oh yes, I suggest you get a back brace. At first that rim is light but after going over it for a while it gets reall heavy.

[rpen]

Why not invest in a flexible shaft? I know they're expensive, but it would save the wear and tear on your body.