Refinishing Targa Bar Cover...HELP !

[Dial91177s]

I've recently purchased a replacement for my '89 Targa Bar Cover......a quality donor part that is straight and free from any dings - something I couldn't say about my earlier as the PO has put so many swirl marks on the SS from removing the paint that it was horrible.

The new piece has a Stainless Steel finish and I'd like to keep that look.....not want to go full mirror, but rather I'm looking for a PROVEN SOLUTION to bringing back to original luster and look of the SS material.

Does anyone have any good advice in terms of products or processes that may work magic and a bit of that SS shine we all love ? What is the best product to use ? What is the worst and should be avoided ?

I'll post some pics tomorrow when I have a chance...

Brian
Cincinnati, OH

[Ayles]

I used 3m synthetic steel wool on mine. Quite a few pics here: Targa bar paint or strip for chrome look

#1 tip is Long straight strokes! you can see when they are short/crooked.

[timmy2]

How to Remove Scratches from Stainless Steel - Refinish Stainless Steel - YouTube
Looks like Scotch Brite pads and a lubricant will work...

[Dial91177s]

Ayles,
Thanks, I think the 3M Synthetic is the way to go - looks great !

How long did it take for you to produce this showroom result ?

[Ayles]

It took wayyyyyy longer than it should have... I started on a misguided of wet sanding and was starting to get a polish on the bar. I think some light wet sanding was good but it would have been way less time if I cut the sanding by 2/3.

Without seeing what you are starting with its hard to say. I had several work sessions in the bar. Maybe 8-10hrs. Which includes the over wet sanding.

[Dial91177s]

ouch....I'm working with an 8/10 that appears to just be dirty at best. So you thinking going at with the 3M product from the start is the general way to go ?

[Dial91177s]

Here are a few pics of the current donor part.....thanks to Jeff at Parts Heaven for finding me a real nice piece to start with here !!

[Ayles]

I think that just needs to be hit with the aircraft stripper, looks like there is still quite a bit of paint on the front edge and in the vents. I'd take off the targa emblems as well and get some new speed nuts.

You can see that I started off very similar to what you have once it was stripped. Had a very dull finish.

[Wangrande]

Mine had circular DA 80 grit sander marks from a mid 80s makeover and 3 layers of black. I started with 80 grit and an inline air sander. moved through grits and finished with scotchbright. Dont be shy, you can restore it.