how to properly polish and seal aluminum?

[strangersinspace]

I have some shock bodies that I'm probably going to stip the anodizing off because they are already loosing the color due to shock springs rubbing and general use. I would get them powdercoated but I'm afraid that the coating would interfere with the ability to thread on the shock cap and with the fitting of the inner shock parts.... has anyone here powder coated their shock bodies? I this a bad idea - as I suspect it would be?

If I don't powdercoat then I'll try to stip and polish them up really well. I've found several threads that discuss stripping and polishing aluminum parts, but I'm wondering about how you protect the aluminum from oxidation over time after you de-anodize it. I understand you can polish the aluminum with a dremel, but what is a good way to seal or protect it? What kind of products can be used for that and how well does it really protect?

[jwscab]

some kind of wax or oil is probably your best bet. I know there are some specialty automotive products that you can use to prolong the aluminum shine.

of course, there is always clear anodizing, or a clear coat paint.

[murphy3428]

you can have them powder coated just mask off the areas you don't want painted, I would not suggest clear coating cause of the abuse they will take from the springs polish is the best protection on the aluminum

[strangersinspace]

So would something like this be ideal for polishing and protecting?

http://www.amazon.com/Dremel-684-01-20-Piece-Polish-Accessory/dp/B00005LEXV/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=hi&qid=1265561648&sr=8-1

[murphy3428]

If you have access to a drill press this is an excellent kit for polishing http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=120377337780&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT