Returning the exterior to shiny aluminum

I've never polished one, I'll let someone else chime in on the techniques. Here's the picture. Be prepared to spend a few hours, days, weeks, etc.

I've used Gords and Blue Magic. I prefer Blue Magic because it's a paste and the results seem brighter. Polish has silicone in it that acts as a sealer.



Airstream owners often use a system that slowly moves to a finer and finer polish. Much more work with better results.

Some Airstream owners use an acid wash to prep the skin although I've only used it for windows. I would call the maker of whichever acid wash you're considering and ask the process.


I use soft buffing pads for the first pass. You will need a lot of them.

Then I hand polish with a microfiber cloth.

Be sure to let the chemicals do the work of getting the paint off otherwise you will scratch the skin to the point it won't polish.

I hope this helps.

Not patient? Love toxic chemicals? Jasco stripper. It works the best but wear heavy gloves and goggles.

Have lots of time? Citrustrip. Works really well and not as toxic but you really need to let it sit for at least two hours.
Wear the gloves and goggles just to be safe.
 
Use a plastic scraper to get it off. If some paint remains reapply the stripper and rub gently with 00 or 000 steal wool. No sand paper. If any scratches appear shift to 0000.