Re: [AMC-List] Restoring Aluminum Headlight Covers

[<francis.swygert@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Date: Monday, May 29, 2006 11:23 AM
From: Keith Kubiak <55fordf100@xxxxxxx>

I am currently restoring my 65 Marlin. The headlight covers are dull but
in
otherwise good shape. I did some sanding, buffng and polishing on one
and was
able to get a nice shine to the metal. Are these headlight covers
anodized? It
was very difficult to get the initial dull surface buffed off. What is
recommended for restoring these to a good shine? Should I buff and
polish them
and then use an aluminum polish/wax? Or should I take them to a shop for
anodizing?


Keith, anodizing is a protective coating. That's likely what you
polished off. Once the aluminum is polished clean it with something like
mineral spirits or paint thinner to remove all traces of wax or polish.
It may appear to be slightly duller, but not much. To prevent corrosion
spray with a clear paint that is UV resistant (not polyurethane). That
will restore the shine also. Modern clear coat paint, even a spray can,
is probably as good as 1960s anodizing. If someone in the local area
powder coats, there are clear posders that work well and would be a more
durable. If the car will be garage kept clear paint will be fine though.


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