Removing scratches in aluminum

[Darrell Thurman]

I am just about finished with my first TD and was always careful in handling the sheet metal. But I still got several superficial scratches that will need to be removed, if possible.
I am sure this is not a new problem so I expect there will be several of you that can help with my problem. Thoughts please!

Darrell in Scio, OR

[Jason and Amanda]

I hear mothers makes a product that works well. I've always used never-dull but that would take you a TON of arm power to remove a scratch. I would be willing to bet that the mothers product, or some other chrome/aluminum restoring product from an automotive store is your best bet.

[halfdome, Danny]

If it were me I'd clean up any goop with lacquer thinner & wash & dry it.
Spray Stainless Steel Magic all over and wipe it with a micro fiber cloth and be done with it. The surface will have an even look to it.

To remove one scratch it will either look dull (sandpaper) or shiny (polish) and then you'll want to do the whole trailer which takes a lot of time. Been there done that.

If your set on doing something make a scratch on the window cut out scrap & practice to see your results.

Eagle One, NEVR-DULL Wading Polish is about the least aggressive polish out there and about 5 bucks a can. Try practicing with some of that.

Other than that you'll need to machine compound the whole trailer to remove scratches and even out the sheen.

Scratches are inevitable with time. Danny

[afreegreek]

I wouldn't bother doing anything. first you'll never get a match and second, there's more scratches in the future for you anyway.. aluminum is just too soft to avoid it.

[Billphish1]

You will find that scratchs come with the teritory sorry nothing to do about it next time ware a pare of cotton gloves to do the install and even then you have scratches ,sorry you just can't stop them. Don't worry about them just go and have some fun camping.

[Darrell Thurman]

Thanks to all of you who answered my question. I REALLY appreciate all of your input. I suppose getting a scratch on your first TD (especially when I caused it) is no different then getting a first scratch on a new car, the first is always the worst.