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Restoring polished aluminum finish

 

I am currently involved in the restoration of an English Electric Lightning Jet. The airframe is of a highly polished aluminium finish.

Over the years outside, the finish has oxidized and dulled significantly. mechanical buffing with metal polishes works, but is highly labor intensive and requires subsequent attention constantly, to stop new oxidation/ corrosion and dulling. What is the best way to restore the finish and keep it that way (without dipping, anodising etc), such options are not viable for us, since the airframe is very large. Is there such a thing as a degreaser that could be applied every few months to remove mark, stains or restore shine?

M Roach
Gatwick Aviation Museum - England

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Years ago, Turco made a product for the military called Starbright that was a cleaner. It would remove a significant amount of oxidation. After that, the plane would be waxed. Turco was bought out at least once, so I have no idea who would make that product now, if at all.

James Watts
- Navarre, Florida