On the 95 F250 I just bought, the diamond plate bed caps look oxidized in some spots. I was thinking some aluminum polish would probably clean it right up, but thought I'd check with the experts first Any suggestions?

 

I've been using a liquid 3M rubbing compound and a piece of carpet to remove the oxidation and bring the luster back, then put a polish on to protect the shine. The carpet tip came from one of the poster in the Appearance forum a while back. The cuts on the diamond plating tear a rag to shreds.

You might want to do a search in the Appearance Forum on aluminium polishing and diamond plate for other ideas.

 

Just wanted give a big thanks to Carlene, would never have thought of the carpet idea..Going to give it a shot this weekend, if it ever gets here. I'll let you know how much sucess I have with it.

 

Thanks for the tip Carlene!

 

If you want it to stay looking nice after you do that......if you have the money......take it to a paint shop and have them throw a coat or 2 of clear coat on it.......it will shine for as long as you own your truck

 

Eastwood also sells "Diamond Clear" in a spray can..... basically an aluminum / brass clear coat that's supposed to be temperature and chemical resistant without yellowing. I used it to coat the bare aluminum valve covers I installed on my rebuilt 302 last February. They still look like new.

 

Mine had a clear coat on them. I found out the hard way, took a buffer to them, they shine good for 2-3 months then it time to do it again.

 

Polish by definition is an abrasive. It will clean the diamond plate but I would wash it off before applying any protection. A heavy wax would be your best protection. You may want to try a polyeuthane but it will yellow in a short period of weather exposure. I do not know anything else to suggest than regular washing and waxing which I am sure you do every other week for the paint, right!
wes

 

I wonder how well a automotive clear coat would stand up to the weather? If somebody has tried it let me know. I do have a couple of buds in the body shop business and it may be an option.