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Aluminum care - polish vs clearcoat ?

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Old 04-08-2006, 06:07 PM
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Question Aluminum care - polish vs clearcoat ?

I'm wondering how to ensure new aluminum parts stay looking their best. In my particular case, have a set of new aluminum pedals machined from billet.

I'm embarrassed to admit it , but I occasionally drive my car in the rain, which means my shoes may be slightly wet when I get in, and I may get water on my pedals. I don't want the pedals oxidizing, mainly because I don't want to contort my body to get in there to polish them if I don't have to.

That said, should I just buy some dupli-color clear coat and clear coat them so a simple wipe-down would clean them up in the future?
What are the disadvantages to clear-coating?
I realize it may mean the pedals only show 90% of their potential shine, but these are pedals... they don't have to look perfect.

- OR -

Should I use Metal Armor? I hear it prevents oxidation. Has anyone tried it?

Other suggestions?
Old 04-08-2006, 06:23 PM
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You can clear coat them, but from the constant use of them you will probably end up having the clear chip and flake off.
Old 04-09-2006, 12:27 PM
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Good to know. I was under the impression clear-coat was actually a harder finish than regular basecoat.

So are there any options for keeping aluminum looking decent with fairly low maintenance?
Or am I just stuck polishing if I want it to look good?
Old 04-09-2006, 01:56 PM
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Sent you a detailed pm showing you the products with pictures available from Eastwood (sponsor) ===>

You're welcome. ~Joshua
Old 04-10-2006, 09:32 PM
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Thanks for the info. Looks like I'm going to get the Zoop sealant over the clearcoat.
paint flaking off of pedals would get annoying, and I figure I can use the Zoop once I get the wheels I want.
Old 04-10-2006, 09:59 PM
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The Zoop goes over raw metal. Keeps them mirror like for 2 years.
Old 04-11-2006, 11:46 AM
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Sorry, that was poorly worded. I meant over, as in the option chosen... I'm going to do the Zoop instead of clearcoat.
I understand the Zoop goes on the bare metal, not over paint.
Thanks for the help, and looking out for ignorant posts of mine.



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