After many hours of polishing...

I've finally finished the refurbishing if the wheel arch trim and the rocker covers. Thought I'd show you all the results.

 

That looks really good.
I did about a mile of the stuff for my former Vista Cruiser and know it's not easy and takes some time to learn. I only turned a few pieces into pretzel on the buffer, then I had to learn how to straighten out stainless steel pretzels.

 

I remember spending winter weekends in the garage working on the 55 Chevy wagon. As warm as some of the stainless got I kept my hands warm. Ducking and chasing trim around in the garage also kept me warm!
I used a small pick hammer and dollys to pop out small dents and creases then various sized files, finger nail polishing sticks, all sizes of sand paper, then polish over and over.
Takes a lot of time but well worth it. Your trim looks great !

 

looks really good. Did you treat it with anything to keep the oxidation from returning?

 

Thanks mate!

No, I haven't yet. I polished with Autosol, which has a wax like finish, sort of, which can create a very basic protection. I live in a pretty rainy city, but it's also petty windy. The car lives on a concrete driveway under a waterproof cover so the wind dries it off pretty quickly. I did the grill/headlight bezels approx 12 months ago, and it still really only has water stains and a slight haze. I'll post some pics here tomorrow of the before and after.

I've been suggested that a cover of carnauba wax is a good idea, others have suggested a spray of clear coat to keep the elements away. I haven't decided which way to go. By clear coat, the budget would only allow for spray can, so would have to consider finish vs cost, when wax might provide a better looking finish, albeit one that may need reapplication in time.

cheers

 

Looks great!

 

You efforts were worth it it looks great. I'm wondering which way you went? Clear coat or wax?

 

It all looks real nice. It's the little things like this that can really finish a car's appearance. Nicely done and thanks for sharing.

 

Thanks Paul!

Thanks Fannie, yeah lots of cursing and stuff whilst doing the work, but results well worth it. I went with a light wax in the end, wasn't sure I could get a good enough finish from a spray can, which was all the budget allowed for. At least I can keep polishing and waxing as required if required.
Cheers

Thanks Orth, you're right, it really does draw your eyes when shining in the light. I can really notice it, and smile a little to myself when I look at it.

Thanks for your comments support guys!

 

The hard work paid off as your '66 wagon with its shiny trim looks Awesome!

 

Well done. Did you apply some sort of metal sealant on them?

 

Thanks Charli. I did do a light wax coat, but was also recommended a product called Purple from California Customs which is designed for covering metal in this situation.

As winter rolls closer here, I'll probably take the trim off and again, re do a light polish and try this Purple stuff. Apparently it's excellent.

Cheers