Grille Question??
Logistics Pro
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 4,651
Likes: 60
From: Hemet ca.
I hope to have a 65 grille soon, when I do I'll keep it for you until your ready regardless of how long it takes. You do get first dibs.
Logistics Pro
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 4,651
Likes: 60
From: Hemet ca.
Thanks to the EPA the anodize is not very good, lasting for a short time then starts to flake.
I have heard of a couple of places that can do it completely in a single dip, not sure on how long it will last.
For me and what I do, it's not cost effective.
One thing to remember is once anodized you'll only need to keep it clean. But, once it starts to flake or yellow, you'll need to strip it off and do it again.
I polish, then seal with an aluminum sealer, just keep clean and it will look good. If dulling just polish it by hand with aluminum polish and seal again. You'll always have a bright shine and never have to remove the grille again.
Lead Driver
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 6,305
Likes: 18
From: Boulder Creek, Ca
Actually found a shop that would anodize but the cost was prohibitive, in questioning the platter about having the grille chromed they suggested using the 65 steel grille rather than the aluminum, explaining there's a reason the aluminum grille does not have a high gloss. Having done a 'do it myselfer' I certainly will be in touch should I need to replace the grille.
Logistics Pro
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 4,651
Likes: 60
From: Hemet ca.
Actually found a shop that would anodize but the cost was prohibitive, in questioning the platter about having the grille chromed they suggested using the 65 steel grille rather than the aluminum, explaining there's a reason the aluminum grille does not have a high gloss. Having done a 'do it myselfer' I certainly will be in touch should I need to replace the grille.
Powder coating is another way to go, however the chrome is not a bright chrome finish. I almost powder coated a 67 grille but it was in near perfect condition that it had to be chromed.
There is a difference in the shine, but you pay dearly for a good chrome job.
Don't you just love the EPA?
Elder User
Joined: Feb 2014
Posts: 713
Likes: 3
From: Florida
Most likely the anodize is shot or will be when trying to remove the paint. Either way, if you really want to tackle the polishing, it's not difficult.
It is time consuming when doing it in your garage, but it can be done.
I personally polish my grilles. Here's a few pictures of one of my 65 grilles I did for a customer.
It is time consuming when doing it in your garage, but it can be done.
I personally polish my grilles. Here's a few pictures of one of my 65 grilles I did for a customer.
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