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Polished Alu frame weatherproofing

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duncan:
The paint on my aluminium mountainbike frame was starting to bubble up quite badly, so I stripped all the paint off.
Water & roadsalt gets under the the paint where it's scratched and oxidises the metal.

I'd like to polish the frame, and wondered how I could treat it afterwards to preserve the finish.
I know some of you have polished PK Rippers, and I'd like the same finish, but don't want to have to buff it every week to stop it dulling - it's a very big frame :)

Will it hold its shine for a decent length of time, or will I need to lacquer/clearcoat it?
I read on a biking forum that you can use wax. Sounds messy, but anyone tried it?

I went as far as buying a can of acrylic spray lacquer, but maybe someone may recommend a proper professional lacquer spray.
I also have the same problem with the forks (though they're cr-mo). Thanks.

rsdan25:
 :D it would be better 2 put a clear coat i would have fort may b worth gettin sum 1 2 paint it  in a 2k type clear coat  pop it down 2 yr local paint shop ???

duncan:
Yes, less maintenance in the future.
Just checked the local Yellow Pages and there are a couple of companies nearby that may do this. Powdercoaters anyway.
I'm tempted to try it myself, but by the time I've bought all the rattle-cans I'd be approaching the cost of a proper job.
Plus a homemade finish would wear or chip almost immediately.
If I thought I'd get a few months out of a polished finish I might just leave it bare. The forks will definitely need coated though.

rsdan25:
if u get the frame wet  when its bear and leave it . this will stain and thats a pain in the arse 2 pollish out
 :'(

theRuler:
i polished my ripper months ago. months and months. i cant remember when it was! christmas time maybe

anyway i havent touched it since

if you are riding through mud and shit give the bare ali a good waxing. then keep it clean. and thats it.

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