As we finished a LQ installation, and were basking in self administered accolades, the owner lamented that the stainless nose piece, while looking better than the paint, was dull and ratty looking on his used trailer.

From my shop I brought out a buffer and some compound. After about twenty minutes, he had the stainless surface bright and smooth again; actually it looked quite acceptable. In a further moment I brought out some Jeweler's Rouge, a polishing compound I often use on soft brass and bronze castings. It is uncommon to use it on hard metals, especially stainless.

Another ten minutes passed while he again laboured, and when cleaned off, the nose piece looked like jewelry. The colour was now rich and deep, almost like looking into an old mirror. Our jovial mood became ambivalent, as we realized this affect would be temporary.

We then came up with the idea of clear coating the stainless. After he stripped the waxes and polishes from the metal, I shot the surface with an automotive clear coat paint. The final affect is rewarding and attractive. We hope it will be long lasting as well.

The problem with any renovation, is that the improvement makes the surrounding areas look poorly. The owner is now considering compounding the remaining painted surfaces, and having the whole lot shot with a clear coat. That is of course, if he doesn't first change the paint schemes, add graphics............

Originally written by crowleysridgegirl on 2009-08-17 2:35 PM

gard I'd offer him my advice and suggestions on how to do it,sit back under the shade tree,and watch,offering any needed help in the way of comments when necessary. Anything else,and,he sure must be a really terrific friend and well worth keeping.

Tom Sawyer and white washing the fence?

The wife complains I do it too much now.