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Sanding an Aluminum Frame

Old 10-20-05, 09:41 AM
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Sanding an Aluminum Frame

I bought a cheap aluminum frame that was sanded down to the bare aluminum. The sanding job was rough, so I took a 600 grade sand paper to smooth it down a little more. That got it a bit smoother. I don't intend to paint it.
I have 3 questions:
1) First, what is the best way to get the surface as smooth as possible? Like polished aluminum, that I can do myself, without investing a bunch of money?
2) If I get it polished nicely, will it be easy to scratch and all be for nothing if I don't cover it with some kind of clear coat?
3) If a clear coat is necessary, what is the best recommendation for a clear coat I can get at my local hardware store I can apply myself?

It is only going to be a commuter bike, so it doesn't have to look too rad. But, it be nice if it didn't look too ghetto either.
chrisp is offline  
Old 10-20-05, 12:20 PM
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If you go to home depot or lowes you can find a 4 inch polishing pad that fits into a regular drill. It comes with 3 different polishing waxes(red, white, and black). Those will be your best bet for getting a nice bright finish. You will have to clear coat it or you will get some oxidation. If not then you just have to keep it polished up frequently. The best clear coats are a two part paint that have a hardener. If you have an auto paint shop nearby maybe you could get a small amount from them.
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