posted 03-21-2012 08:58 PM ET (US)            

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I most of the time just use a good wax being that we are in a freshwater area. I also have used had great success with Mother's Aluminum and Metal Polish. It also works great to quickly buff out minor gelcoat scratches.

http://bit.ly/GG6RbG

Some like Brasso for polishing. I personally do not care for it, nor do I think is out shines the Mothers product.

posted 03-21-2012 09:35 PM ET (US)            

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I am sure it is overkill but this detailing tutorial from a vintage BMX site might have some tips for you.
The first part covers aluminum so just scroll down to the picture of a bolt.
This guy takes an off the shelf stainless bolt and turns it into a mirror.

http://www.vintagebmx.com/community/lofiversion/index.php/t4005471.html

posted 03-21-2012 09:54 PM ET (US)            

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That is some super nerdy bike geek work in that link. I loved it. Brings back memories.

http://www.vintagebmx.com/community/lofiversion/index.php/t4005471.html

posted 03-22-2012 11:59 AM ET (US)            

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Thanks for the suggestions.

Are Bar Keepers Friend and Collinite available at Miejer's or Wal-Mart?

posted 03-22-2012 01:30 PM ET (US)            

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BAR KEEPER'S FRIEND may be too much for your situation. It will remove corrosion. But it will only cost a few dollars to give it a try.

ASIDE: Not long ago we were doing a bit of clean-up at work. In the back of a cabinet I found a small bottle of metal polish, dating from the 1960's, that was made by a local company in Detroit. I tried this stuff on some brass electrical plugs--it was fantastic at removing oxidation and leaving a bright polished surface. It was the best metal polish I've ever used on brass.

PORTER'S FRIEND
Metal Polishing Cream

North American Polish Corporation
650 East Troy Street
Ferndale, Michigan

Compare at

http://cbrfan.com/parts/?view=item&id=180829939758&name=Vintage+1920s+ 30s+Porter+s+Friend+Silver+and+Metal+Polishing+Cream+Tin+Can+Pint

posted 03-22-2012 01:57 PM ET (US)            

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The best stuff I have used is Woody Wax. It's expensive, but it works very well to restore the shine, and adds a lasting level of protection to the metal surface. I use it for both stainless and marinium parts. A little goes a long way, and the kit I bought 3 years ago still has some material left. If things are really pitted, this will save you some work.

For a quick and dirty clean and shine of stainless steel, sparay some WD-40 on a rag and give it a wipe. Works better than you would expect, and is great for a quick shine when cleaning the boat after an outing.

posted 03-22-2012 03:17 PM ET (US)            

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2 things about cleaning metal:

1) Use regualr cheap white vinegar and it will clean the rust off in seconds....seriously.

2) When you polish it you need to put something on it that will protect it afterwards. Woody wax is good for that as it is a spray. Personally not the best color restorer but great for protection and non-skid. I like the "original" blue can never dull personally, polishes and protects in one. Do NOT however use it on anything anodized or gold plated unless you want to screw it up.

posted 03-22-2012 04:49 PM ET (US)            

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I have used most products on the market including Flitz. I have found that Starglow Extreme works better than any that I have used in the past. I use it on all types of metal including my SS appliances, guns and even the SS bands on my watches. It's not cheap at ~$35.00 but works great.

http://www.magicbling.com/Jewelry_Cleaner_and_Polish.html

posted 03-26-2012 03:12 PM ET (US)            

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Wash and wipe down with fresh water after every ocean trip. WD-40 every now and then. Very light application with a rag. Waxing the stainless rails...pu-leeeze!

Tony

posted 03-27-2012 06:20 PM ET (US)            

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I've been using Brasso since 1955. There is nothing better in my rather vast experience. The resulting shine is unmatched. Follow with Woody Wax for a little longevity.

Butch