Frame Restoration- stripping clear coat

[Nobody]

I used ELARA stripper (works well but cant compare) to remove the clear coat and decals. Basically down to bare metal. This took about three goes as some spots are harder than others or I might have applied it unevenly. Used a plastic scraper for the final removal of paint.

 

I then used a rough sand paper to clean up the bad scratches, then a 600, and finally a 1200 grit sand paper.

I got everything from brights hardware and 1200 is the finest sand paper they have.

 

How do i make this puppy shine?

[EigerSA]

making any metal shine is just a case of getting it as flat and smooth as possible. as a test, i got the top tube of a my old silverback alu frame shining away like a mirror. basically started with an 800g water paper, then 1000g, then 1200g followed finally by a 1500g. keeping in mind it's alu and the material can be removed pretty quickly, just keep sanding nice and light and use soapy water to prevent the paper scratching; remember you're only using finer grades of paper to remove the sanding marks from previous grades. I finished off with a quick rub down with rubbing compound and then polished with a car polish. all in all took about an hour or so. i don't ride the bike at all, but about a year later it's still pretty shiny.

[Nobody]

After the polish, did you do anthing else to the frame?

I am worried that it will go dull again, but its a MTB. I can get a clear coat (I bought a rattle can) done by a panel beater.

 

I am going to Midas now, what "rubbing compound must i ask for?

[EigerSA]

just ask for a rubbing compound. basically it like using a 4000g paper, just in paste form. i would consider putting a clear powder coat or laquer on, but that may take a little of the "shiny" away. don't rattle can, it's not worth it at all from a longevity point of view. see if you can't find a furniture maker in your area to spray the laquer on, or a panel beater.