how to make trim look good again?

[TroyPilcher]

I have some trim in ok shape......off of my 65 f100. what is the best way to referbish them. bends and dents are obvious but if i get the shape back what are you guys using to shine and clean it?

[Greg D]

It would be like polishing any other aluminum piece.
First you have to get the anodizing off though.
Technique will depend on what final finish you are looking for.
Stock would be somewhere between polished & brushed.
Full mirror polishing would be kind of cool.
IMHO, unless you can do this yourself, you can probably buy New reproduction trim for less money.
Having it restored is Very expensive.
Eastwood has some products that will assist you and some come with a How To video.

http://www.eastwood.com/

[graybeard]

If you truly want to bond with your truck, polish that trim. While it's still warm, OK Hot, lay your trim out on a piece of concrete early afternoon. When the trim is hot, and still outside for ventillation, spray it with Easy Off oven cleaner. Pretty quickly after you've hit it with the cleaner rinse it off with a garden hose. It may take more than one try. Getting under the anodize is the purpose. Mothers mag polish will make it look pretty good, if you want mirror finish, it'll take a buffer. My polisher cost me about $120, 25 years ago. I've lost track of how many sets of wheels I've polished with it, same with valve covers , and aluminum trim. A good polisher is a good investment in your hobby. To start you'll need a couple of sticks of rouge, the brown is a good starting place.
A nice piece of oak, a plastic headed mallet, wet or dry sandpaper in multiple gritts, you can take care of a lot of dents scratches etc.

[TroyPilcher]

Thanks for your feedback!!! I like the bonding idea and save some $

[mitzel]

greybeard,

After the polishing does the aluminum need to be re-annodized
or clear coated with something for protection?


thanks,danny

[graybeard]

Thanks for your feedback!!! I like the bonding idea and save some $

Once you've pollished it it is real easy to bring it back if it dulls out a little. Anytime
I hit my Torque Thrust (a couple of times a year) with Mother's I spend just a little more time on my trim and grill. Personally I'm not much on anodize.

[Uncle Skip]

Good carnauba wax helps keep the finish from oxidizing.