Phil99vette

iTrader: (11)

Looking for some options for finishing aluminum. I've got a couple parts we've welded and need to finish. I've seen a couple guys strip the aluminum with easy off oven cleaner and polish them but I hate keeping up with polished parts. Any other good solutions for finishing aluminum parts besides anodizing?
Phil

MikeGyver

iTrader: (5)

Sometimes I'll sandblast, wash and spray aluminum parts with clear enamel. It gives a factory-sand cast appearance. You could do other finishes, like Scotchbrite, etc. The enamel (from a spray can) seems to hold up on sand blasted parts, I've never tried it with other finishes.

Phil99vette

iTrader: (11)

Main thing I am worried about is IF I paint/clearcoat them is it going to stick. I'd love to paint them and forget about it.

CTSmechanic

iTrader: (2)

Looks like you answered your own question.. I like scotchbrite... touch up in a box...

Phil99vette

iTrader: (11)

Anything special to painting aluminum? Or just rough up and shoot.

Shawn @ VA Speed

iTrader: (3)

paint sticks to alum just as good as anything,just hit it with some scotchbrite and paint it

TLewis4095

iTrader: (10)

Powder coat....durable & looks awesome.

Shawn @ VA Speed

iTrader: (3)

good idea-x2 on the powdercoat

v8pwr

iTrader: (19)

Paint does not stick to aluminum very well without proper surface prep . A clear powder coat is durable and can handle the higher temps . I've used Glisten PC with great success following appropiate surface prep . Glisten is made by the same manufacturer as POR 15 and very durable . I've never exposed it to temps above 150 F but it handles it and looks great . Although more expensive , hard anodizing is the **** when it comes to aluminum and can handle nearly as much as the parent metal . Of course there's always standard anodizing .

CTSmechanic

iTrader: (2)

Depending on how good your welds look I dont think anything looks better than raw alum with perfect welds....

1BadAction

iTrader: (10)

Engine turning... use a rotary sander with some 180 or 220 grit, pick it up and over lap it. it should stay nice for a good while, but if you clear powdercoat it, it will last damn near forever. you can also use some bulldog adhesion promoter and shoot clear directly over it for a slick finish.

01ssreda4

iTrader: (96)

we paint cast pieces at work. we do a low pressure glass bead in a cabinet then paint, or do a cleaner called alkanox(or something) like a detergent then paint. never had a problem with it sticking....buts its cast aluminum.