Polished Aluminum, oxidization ?

[TargeT]

I just spent a LONG 3 hours polishing all my IC pipes and intake pipe, do i have to worry abou the metal oxidizing or anything? should i get it clear coated or will the aluminum stay polished?

 

[Nanan]

Aluminum will get a chalky white oxidization to it after a while, the rate at which this happens depends on humidity and temp of the part. Most people combat this problem by using products like Mothers Aluminum polish or the like. You could also clear coat the pipes with some spray paint which is widely avalable.

 

[Defiant]

Most polishes contain a protectant. The reason aluminum doesn't rust is that it "rusts" almost immediately. Aluminum oxide is incredibly tough (it's used for sandpaper grit and grinding wheels) and holds on to the base metal with a very strong bond. Unlike iron oxide, it doesn't have a huge color contrast with the base metal.
Wax or oils are enough to keep the air away from the aluminum and keep it shiny. Or, you can do like motorcyles and clearcoat it.

 

[TargeT]

thats what i was hearing from the guys @ the wood shop where i polished my stuff ()

So i guess they are prolly alright for a while because i used a wax polishing compound & cloth wheel to do them, but b4 they go on the car i should just give them a light coat of oil? or get them clear coated?

clear coating seems like it would last pretty long, i'll give that a try

 

[splattj]

Make sure you use a good chemical cleaner before you clearcoat. Those same protective oils will keep your paint from bonding to the pipes.