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Join Date: Apr 2002
Posts: 30,476
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Removing scratches on anodized Fuchs?
I'm in the process of giving my Fuch's a bit of TLC, and after searching the archives, I'm still unsure about how to tackle some of the minor scratches that are on the anodized outer rims. These scratches appear 'shallow', but I'd still like to remove them (without doing further damage) if possible. How have others tackled this...wet sanding (2000 grit), rubbing compound, polish, etc.? I'm open for suggestions and tips...have a great weekend everyone!!!!
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08-23-2002, 09:46 AM
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Registered
Join Date: Jul 2000
Location: So. Calif.
Posts: 19,910
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Unfortunately, any surface repairs (sanding, polishing, etc.) will remove the anodized surface treatment which will not match the surrounding area. To do this correctly, you will have to remove the entire anodizing (including the paint in the center), repolish, then re-anodized and repaint. The short description is to refinish the entire wheel. I know, it's a shame and a hassle.
Sherwood Lee http://members.rennlist.org/911pcars |
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08-23-2002, 09:57 AM
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Join Date: Apr 2002
Posts: 30,476
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Thanks Sherwood! I had already realized (from the archives), that sanding, etc. would remove the anodized coating. I'm contemplating an attempt to isolate the scratch (by taping around its edges), and then trying to sand/polish "only the scratch area" if I will improve the appearance, or am I just going to 'make it worse'.
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08-23-2002, 10:07 AM
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Join Date: Jun 2000
Posts: 3,444
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Soap, water, vaseline.
ANYTHING else will make it worse. GeorgeK |
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08-23-2002, 10:14 AM
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I just did this project on my car a couple of weeks ago. However, I didn't realize my wheels were anodized until after I sanded the scratches.
I had large scratches on every wheel, so I had no choice but to remove the anodizing. In his book, Wayne recommends sanding, but mentions that he heard of some people using lye (no personal experience). I decided to use the lye and it worked extemely well, but you need to work fast to avoid etching into the aluminum of the wheel. After I cleaned off the residue, I polished with a wheel polishing kit that I bought at the Pomona swapmeet, then repainted my wheels. Now they're shinier than they ever were before, and look stunning. I'm very happy with the results. If you decide to use the lye, don't forget to remove your center caps before you start since many of those are black anodized and the lye will take it right off.
__________________
Bob '82 911SC Targa |
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08-23-2002, 11:52 AM
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Join Date: Jul 2000
Location: So. Calif.
Posts: 19,910
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To add to BoogieOnSkis' remarks, here's an interesting DIY anodizing link:
http://www.early911sregistry.org/TechInfo.html Regards, Sherwood Lee http://members.rennlist.org/911pcars |
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08-23-2002, 01:07 PM
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