|
|
Post by wisconsinjoe on Oct 2, 2021 4:59:39 GMT -8
I'm almost done cleaning up the rough 40 mil skin (...typically used for tractor trailer roofs), which had lots of nicks, scratches, gouges, and stains. Started with 120 grit sandpaper and worked up to 1000, then used rubbing compound to give a satisfactory satin milled finish. Not going for mirror finish.
But now what should I do? I don't want to apply a clear coat that will need future maintenance (and possible removal). Any recommendations? Wax? Mother's Polish? Leave it alone and accept slow oxidation?
|
|
shastatom
Full Member
I can chase women or fix campers, I choose to fix what I understand........... campers.
Posts: 745 
Likes: 419
Shasta 54,57 1500 58 Airflyte
Currently Offline
|
Post by shastatom on Oct 2, 2021 6:35:10 GMT -8
Yes to all the above. The oxidation will come no matter what you do.
|
|
WhitneyK
Active Member
Posts: 492
Likes: 169
'67 Shasta Compact
Currently Offline
|
Post by WhitneyK on Oct 2, 2021 6:40:22 GMT -8
Hey Joe, A good wax would be my suggestion. Polished on mine from time to time. Not trying to discourage, rather make you aware; without some protectant, that type of aluminum doesn't hold it shine long before oxidizing again. Good part is it's smooth now.  Polished the other side a couple years ago, washed it but didn't get it dried off quick enough and now I have permanent water spots. Will have to light sand and re-polish is my guess. I'll probably paint it first. This side and front oxidized in about 2 years to this state. I'm kinda ok with it. (still see the water spots tho  )  Another word of advice; if you get your sweaty arm against it while working around it or if people lean their sweaty hand on it while talking (as folks tend to do) be sure and wash the area. It will oxidize white in a few weeks in those spots and it will require sanding to remove it. Bottom line I guess is: Protect it, protect it, protect it The camper I've posted pics of was never meant to be a show piece, just keep us dry while traveling and be more "bear" resistant than a tent. We've used the snot out of it (40k miles) and it's served it's purpose (43 States + Vancouver Is) and will continue to fill that roll until we get the Compact finished and ready for the road. Again, just my opinion, didn't say it was a good one... Whitney |
|
|
|
Post by wisconsinjoe on Oct 2, 2021 7:05:37 GMT -8
Thanks WhitneyK. I think I'll get some Mothers and give it a bit of protection. You got a pretty nice shine on that. Mine not as much, but smooth. I like the "bear protection." I do feel good about the 40 mil aluminum. Heavy stuff.
|
|
nccamper
Administrator 
Posts: 7,743
Likes: 2,870
1962 Forester- 1956 Shasta
Currently Offline
|
Post by nccamper on Oct 2, 2021 7:19:06 GMT -8
Wax will slow it down but it will rub off if you use a cover. And it needs redone twice a year but it's less work than trying to get off oxidation.
Some people love the oxidized look.
|
|
WhitneyK
Active Member
Posts: 492
Likes: 169
'67 Shasta Compact
Currently Offline
|
Post by WhitneyK on Oct 2, 2021 18:18:29 GMT -8
Thanks WhitneyK. I think I'll get some Mothers and give it a bit of protection. You got a pretty nice shine on that. Mine not as much, but smooth. I like the "bear protection." I do feel good about the 40 mil aluminum. Heavy stuff. I didn't sand the side you see my reflection in, just polished it with a random orbital polisher and a liquid polish White Diamond. Just a little dab'll do it. I've used Mothers for years, still like it, but the White Diamond works quicker in my opinion, for what it's worth... Whitney |
|
/Campers/67%20Shasta?preview=2019-02-03+18.01.00.jpg)
)
