Aluminum Polishing

[Bigbng]

I'd like to get your imput on how to polish aluminum parts the best way, and what compounds, tools you used. I've read that it is somewhat akin to finishing off body work before a paint job, where you go to lighter and lighter abrasives, but for aluminum, you must do them perpendicular to each other for the finish to shine.

I am specifically refering to an exhaust on a motorcycle, so I don't know how certain compounds may react to heat, and don't want to risk ruining the finish, any input is greatly appreciated.

Seems like every aluminum polish manufacturer, says that "THEIRS" is the best......

Thanks

 

[dieseltrooper]

I can't speak to technique, but the guys I've always seen at the truckstops were using jewelers rouge and high-speed buffers on the wheels and tanks.

 

[captskip9]

Bigng i never herd of aluminum exhaust pipes better check to make shure should be stainless steel .I always used mothers mag &aluminum polish works well but is very time consuming .I asked a trucker what he used on his big bud wheels ,he used a product called heavy metal polish www.heavymetalpolish.com I had a lot of side molding from my 64 impala to refinish and no way was i using mothers on it.i had to strip off the anadise coating on the molding used red devil lye and man that stuff worked in 10 seconds (wear rubber gloves ) saved me a lot of money doing it myself.The heavy metal comes in different
abrasive's light ,medium, heavy this stuff is very thin liquid you shake it up and wipe with a rag well it cut my refinishing time in half. Now i only use this stuff the mothers is collecting dust .I got my bottle at a truck stop couldn't find it in any parts stores or
walley world.Dont ever try to polish aluminum when it is hot you will stain it .

 

[Bigbng]

Hi captskip
I should have been clearer, it is an aluminum cover over the exhaust, with holes drilled in it, kind of like a colander.
I'll look for the polish at the local truck stop, thanks for the info.