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!

polishing meaning adding chrome to it?

Just polished, I did not remove the manifold.

Looks good,

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.
++++

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

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.

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

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

Looks great!

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

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

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.