Hi! I got my self an used set of rims, they need some work on the lip(s). I have made a machine that spins the wheel, but I need some tips how to make the rims shiny. I have used wet sanding from 400 to 2000 grid, and then metal polish. I am not satisfyed with the finish. Do I press too hard or are my sandpapers ***** or does it need more water than I use on the job?

 

I'm not an expert in finish, but I took some wet sanding to some aluminum plate. It looked chrome afterwards. Wet sanding with 5000 grit. You probably want to keep it wet.

 

Okey, I will try that, thanks!

 

Like paint, you need polishing compound too. Which begs the question, has your process gone through the original coating? Is it making your hands black?

Then when done, a clear coat or it will oxidize in no time at all. The catch is this, too smooth/too shinny, the clear won't stick or weather well... It will fly off. Do not use Silicone based polish or nothing will ever stick again.

Take a spot out of site, scuff with Scotch Brite, and clear coat it after cleaning thoroughly. The clear should make pop.