Topic: Best polishing method

[jmtuccini]

Any tips on tools and products for polishing all the aluminum parts on my CB550.

I used light sand paper and steel wool on the fork tubes and I got a nice looking finish. There's alot more to do on many of the engine parts and I'm looking for the best way to do it.

[matt mattison]

If your budget allows, buy floor/bench mounted buffer. Look on YouTube or Eastwood's website for a tutorial

[jamesb]

harbor freight  sells a bench mounted buffer that is pretty good.i bought one and love it.it is definitely worth the money. i did my cb550 cases and forks.i have done several parts for people.and everyone was happy with the results. they sell different pads plus the rouge.do what you did with the sand paper work your way to a 1000-1500 grit depending on how good you want. then polish it out with a buffer and you'll wind up with a chrome like finish.the up keep on it is another story. but it is not bad.

[CycleRanger]

Heh, the best way is have it professionally done.
I also have the HF buffer. It works, but it makes you work for it as it doesn't always provide enough torque.
Yes, wet sanding prior to buffing definitely helps.
I did all my own polishing and it came out pretty good. Good enough for me.

[jmtuccini]

You can get buffer wheels for a grinder right.

[Willy D]

Ditto on the HF buffer, i have one and it works but it is kind of underpowered. I also use a regular dual grinder with the buffing wheels mounted. The grinder has a lot more power, but the shafts are shorter so sometimes the body of the grinder gets in the way. look for buffing wheels that are wider 1" or so, they are a lot easier to use than the narrow 1/2" ones that come with most kits.

[Don R]

I use an old blower motor with a hardware store arbor on it. I just put the motor mount in my vice, stack a couple buffs in it and get to it.

[luap]

could powdercoat everything chrome/polished no upkeep that way