JimE430

The engine compartment on a MBZ V8 looks beautiful...except the intake manifold. So, after about 10 hours, some grinding, filing, sanding, and polishing, this is what you get!

freshyip

polishing meaning adding chrome to it?

JimE430

Just polished, I did not remove the manifold.

RhinoLT

Looks good,

dan_cobb

Yep, it looks great, but I wonder how long it will stay shiny without routine polishing/cleaning.
Don't get me wrong. I'm not knocking it one bit, just wondering how long it would last that way if it was mine.
++++

why_not

wow - looks good :-) good job.
By experience i know that its not easy ..
/kim

JimE430

A polished Aluminum part will pretty much stay that way as long as you dont use any abrasives on it. Use a non abrasive polish a couple of times a month and it will look great.
Thanks all for the complements.

why_not

how about doing the same to the dash wood ?.. i tried to sand down a piece yesteday ? would look nice with a black dash..

JimE430

I really love the Burlwood, but you could sand down to the bare wood then use a very dark stain.

Ben'z

Looks great!

JimPurdy

Great job! I wonder if a sealer like is used on polished brass would keep the finish.

Gregs210

When I used to polish aluminum on my motorcycles there was an aerosol product that was a clear coat; worked to preserve the finish for several years. Last I bought was at a Yamaha dealer (I think it was a genuine Yamaha brand), but I'd bet it is much more available now. It is heat resistant, too; it was used even on bike crankcases.

A decent web search should turn some up.

Either way, lots of work but damn, you gotta love the results!

Enjoy that sweet ride,
Greg

JimE430

I have tried the clear coat a long time ago. I did not like way it kinda dulled the finish and looked a little yellow. I am sure the products are a lot better today. I will give it a try. It would make the upkeep next to nothing. Thanks.